A 16-year-old girl of South Asian descent presents to the PMHNP accompanied by her father. He reports that since the death of her mother 3 months ago, his daughter has been having episodes of strange behavior. He describes these episodes as beginning with a stomach ache and dizziness. Then she behaves as though her dead mother has taken control of her body. After a few minutes, she is back to herself again. Afterward, the patient states she cannot remember anything about these episodes. Which culture-bound syndrome should the PMHNP include in the differential diagnosis?

Choice A reason: Amok is a culture-bound syndrome mostly reported in Southeast Asia characterized by sudden episodes of aggressive or homicidal behavior, usually followed by amnesia. This does not match the described symptoms of dissociation and possession. Choice B reason: Khayal is a culture-bound syndrome from South Asia involving panic-like symptoms with palpitations, dizziness, and fear of death, often related to wind sensations. While it shares somatic features, it does not involve the sense of a deceased person controlling the body. Choice C reason: This choice is correct because possession syndrome involves episodes where an individual believes a spirit or supernatural entity has taken control of their body, often accompanied by dissociative amnesia. The patient’s behavior, post-episode memory loss, and cultural context fit this syndrome. Choice D reason: Ataque de nervios is commonly reported in Latin American populations and includes intense emotional outbursts such as crying, trembling, and shouting, which are culturally specific and do not align with the presentation described here.