Free EPPP Exam Questions That Helps Candidates Pass

Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), formerly dysthymia, involves a chronic depressed mood lasting at least 2 years in adults (1 year in children/adolescents). Symptoms may be less severe than Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) but are continuous, producing functional impairment. In contrast, MDD (A) requires discrete episodes lasting ≥2 weeks with more pronounced symptoms. Cyclothymic Disorder (B) involves alternating periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms that never meet full criteria for a mood episode. Adjustment Disorder (D) describes depressive symptoms triggered by an identifiable stressor, usually resolving within 6 months after the stressor ends. PDD may include “double depression,” where MDD episodes occur within the persistent dysthymic pattern. On the EPPP, accurately differentiating between mood disorders requires close attention to duration, severity, and episodic versus chronic patterns.

Industry vs. Inferiority (school age) centers on developing competence through academic and social success. Success leads to confidence, while failure may cause feelings of inferiority. Initiative vs. Guilt (A) occurs in preschool years. Autonomy vs. Shame (B) occurs in toddlerhood. Identity vs. Role Confusion (D) is in adolescence. On the EPPP, knowing the sequence and outcomes of Erikson’s stages supports developmental assessment.

Behavioral parent training teaches caregivers to apply reinforcement and punishment consistently to manage child behavior. Time-out removes reinforcement for misbehavior, reducing its occurrence. Cognitive restructuring (A) modifies thoughts. Insight-oriented therapy (C) emphasizes unconscious processes. Exposure therapy (D) treats phobias and anxiety. Parent training is highly effective for ADHD and conduct problems. On the EPPP, candidates should identify behavioral interventions and their mechanisms.

Acetylcholine (ACh) plays a critical role in memory, learning, and attention. Degeneration of cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain is linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Norepinephrine (B) mediates stress and arousal. Substance P and endorphins (C) influence pain. GABA (D) is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter. ACh is also essential for neuromuscular junction signaling. On the EPPP, candidates must link neurotransmitters to cognitive and clinical syndromes, with acetylcholine deficits tied specifically to memory disorders.

APA Ethics Code prohibits false, deceptive, or misleading public statements. No treatment guarantees universal cure, so advertising a guarantee is misleading. Confidentiality (A) is unrelated. Conflict of interest (C) involves divided loyalties. Informed consent (D) is separate from public statements. Misleading claims exploit vulnerable individuals and undermine trust. On the EPPP, candidates should recognize that integrity in public communications is central to professionalism.