affective disorder (redirected from emotional disturbance)

affective disorder

Mental disorder characterized by dramatic changes or extremes of mood. Affective disorders may include manic or depressive episodes less severe than those of bipolar disorder, such as anxiety and depression. Symptoms include elevated, expansive, or irritable moods, with hyperactivity, pressured (rapid and forced) speech, and inflated self-esteem; or dejected moods, characterized by lack of interest in life, sleep disturbances, agitation, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt.