Long recognized in Hispanic cultures, an ataque de nervious (ADN) is a culturally-specific syndrome that closely resembles a panic attack. The DSM-IV recognizes ADN and views it as being a distinct clinical syndrome. Despite the popularity of ADN as a folk diagnosis and clinical reports from various Hispanic countries, ADN continues to be little understood. A study in the September 2008 issue of Depression and Anxiety examines incidence of ADN in an ethnically diverse population. Using a sample of 342 undergraduates assessed for acculturation, clinical and anxiety risk factors, the rate of ADN did not significantly vary across the three main groups (African American, Caucasian, and Hispanic participants) nor did it vary based on acculturation. Symptoms of ADN were found to be notably different from panic attack symptoms. The authors conclude that ADNs, as described by the DSM-IV, are not unique to the Hispanic culture and are experienced by non-Hispanic individuals as well. The findings are consistent with the DSM-IV assertion that ADNs and PAs are distinct syndromes.
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