WGU D449 NURS 3122 Psychiatric & Mental Health Nursing FA READINESS EXAM GUIDE Q & S 2025/2026

1. Which neurotransmitter imbalance is most commonly
associated with the development of depression?
 - A) Acetylcholine
 - B) Dopamine
 - C) Serotonin
 - D) GABA
 - Answer: C) Serotonin
 - Rationale: Serotonin is a key neurotransmitter in the
regulation of mood, and its imbalance is strongly linked to
depressive disorders.
2. In cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), the term
"cognitive distortions" refers to:
 - A) Unintentional memory lapses
 - B) Automatic, inaccurate thoughts
 - C) Delusions of grandeur
 - D) Sudden emotional outbursts
 - Answer: B) Automatic, inaccurate thoughts
 - Rationale: Cognitive distortions are patterns of
thinking that are often irrational and negatively biased,
which CBT aims to correct.
3. Which of the following is the hallmark symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
 - A) Auditory hallucinations
 - B) Persistent re-experiencing of the traumatic event
 - C) Social withdrawal
 - D) Anorexia
 - Answer: B) Persistent re-experiencing of the
traumatic event
 - Rationale: Re-experiencing symptoms, such as
flashbacks or nightmares, are core symptoms of PTSD.