What is the term for anxiety that arises in response to a specific known trigger, such as a phobia?

Choice A reason: Free-floating anxiety is characterized by a pervasive, chronic sense of unease or dread that is not attached to any specific object, event, or situational trigger. It is a hallmark feature of generalized anxiety disorder, where the individual experiences persistent apprehension without a clearly identifiable or discrete external stimulus. Choice B reason: Signal anxiety refers to a learned response to an anticipated event or a specific identifiable stimulus that the individual perceives as threatening. In clinical psychopathology, this serves as an ego defense mechanism, alerting the person to internal or external danger, such as the specific triggers encountered in phobic disorders. Choice C reason: Somatic symptom disorder involves an intense focus on physical symptoms, such as pain or fatigue, which causes significant emotional distress and functional impairment. While anxiety may be present, the primary clinical feature is the manifestation of physical complaints that are disproportionate to any underlying medical pathology or etiology. Choice D reason: Malingering is the intentional production of false or grossly exaggerated physical or psychological symptoms, motivated by external incentives such as avoiding work, obtaining financial compensation, or procuring drugs. It is not an anxiety disorder but rather a deliberate behavior aimed at achieving a specific, tangible secondary gain.