Suspiciousness and marked evasiveness

This diagnosis code signifies a patient exhibiting a pervasive distrust of others, often accompanied by a deliberate avoidance of direct answers or interactions. It describes a behavioral pattern characterized by wariness, guardedness, and a tendency to deflect or obscure information.

This code is appropriate when documentation clearly indicates a patient's persistent suspiciousness and a notable pattern of evasive behavior during clinical encounters. It should be used when these traits are significant enough to be noted as a clinical finding, often impacting the assessment or treatment process.

• Ensure documentation specifies both "suspiciousness" and "evasiveness" as distinct, observed behaviors.
• Do not use this code for transient or situation-specific guardedness; it implies a more pervasive pattern.
• Consider if a more specific psychiatric diagnosis (e.g., paranoid personality disorder) is documented, which would take precedence.