In assessing affect, which term means full range of expression?

• A. Broad
• B. Blunted
• C. Flat
• D. Restricted

Answer: (A)

Affect refers to the outward display of emotions. When the affect is broad, the person shows a full range of emotional expression appropriate to the situation, with normal variability in facial expressions, voice, and gestures. This indicates a healthy, flexible emotional presentation. In the mental status exam, broad affect stands in contrast to blunted or flat affect, where emotional expression is diminished in intensity or nearly absent, and to restricted (or constricted) affect, where the range of emotion is narrowed but not completely missing. So broad is the best choice because it accurately describes an unimpeded, full spectrum of emotional expression. For example, a person might show happiness, sadness, and concern as the situation warrants, rather than only a muted or limited display.