The MEDIC mnemonic is used to describe what clinical concept?

• A. Maladaptive, Enduring, Deviation from norms, Inflexible, Caustic
• B. Maladaptive; Enduring; Delusion-like deviations; Inflexible; Caustic
• C. Malingering; Enduring; Deviation from norms; Inflexible; Caustic
• D. Mirthful; Enduring; Deviation from norms; Inflexible; Caring

Answer: (A)

This set of descriptors captures the pattern seen in personality disorders: a maladaptive, enduring pattern of inner experience and behavior that deviates from cultural expectations, is inflexible across situations, and tends to be caustic in interactions. Maladaptive signals that the pattern impairs functioning; Enduring shows it’s long-standing and pervasive; Deviation from norms points to cultural expectations being violated; Inflexible describes the rigid, unchanging way it presents across contexts; Caustic reflects the interpersonal harm such patterns often cause. The other phrasings mix in elements that don’t fit personality disorders—such as delusion-like deviations suggesting psychosis, or malingering indicating intentional deception—so they’re not as accurate a description of this clinical concept.