Based on the provided scenario, analyze how the individual's experiences and behaviors meet the criterion of a 'significant disturbance'. Explain which specific thoughts and actions are considered disturbances and why they are viewed as unusual, negative, and unsettling.

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According to the APA, a key criterion for a psychological disorder is the presence of significant disturbances. This involves inner experiences, such as thoughts and feelings, and outward behaviors that are unusual in a negative and self-defeating manner. These disturbances are often also unsettling to the people around the individual.

Significant Disturbances as an APA Criterion for Psychological Disorders

An example of a significant disturbance indicating a psychological disorder is an individual who is uncontrollably preoccupied with thoughts of germs. This inner experience leads to behaviors, such as spending hours bathing each day, that are considered atypical, negative, and would likely be troubling to family members.

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