Recovery Definition — MRCPsych Paper B MCQ
Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.
Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.
Reveal the answer and explanation
Correct answer: C — Pursuing a meaningful and hopeful life defined by the person, despite continuing limitations
Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · A = shown as B · B = shown as C · C = shown as E
B describes personal recovery: an individual, self-defined process of developing a meaningful, hopeful and satisfying life, including when symptoms or other limitations persist. Recovery-oriented rehabilitation therefore emphasises strengths, aspirations, choice, identity, meaningful activity and personally chosen goals. It is distinct from clinical recovery, which may focus on symptom remission or functioning. Accordingly, A incorrectly equates recovery with cure or complete remission, while E assumes restoration of a fixed premorbid state. Medication can support recovery, but C wrongly places adherence above the person's preferences and wider goals. D is also incorrect because professionals facilitate rather than determine recovery; self-direction, peer support, relationships and community resources may all contribute.
Reference: Royal College of Psychiatrists, National Collaborating Centre for Mental Health. The Competence Framework for Mental Health Peer Support Workers: Part 1, Supporting document, sections 2.4.1 and 5.1.1, 2020. https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/docs/default-source/improving-care/nccmh/the-competence-framework-for-mental-health-peer-support-workers/the-competence-framework-for-mh-psws---part-1---supporting-document.pdf?sfvrsn=ad47e42b_2