How are anxiety disorders characterized?

Anxiety disorders are primarily characterized by excessive worry and fear, which is why this choice is the correct one. These disorders manifest through persistent and excessive anxiety about various aspects of life, such as health, work, social interactions, or everyday situations, leading to significant distress and impairment in functioning. This heightened state of anxiety often goes beyond typical worry; individuals may experience physical symptoms such as restlessness, rapid heart rate, or difficulty concentrating.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately depict the nature of anxiety disorders. Excessive joy and excitement represent a completely different emotional state, often associated with mood disorders rather than anxiety. Balanced emotional responses imply a regulated emotional state, which is not characteristic of anxiety disorders—individuals experiencing these conditions are often unable to maintain such balance due to their overwhelming feelings of worry. Lastly, a complete lack of concern contradicts the very essence of anxiety disorders, where individuals are preoccupied with fearful thoughts and worries, making them unable to function optimally in daily life.