American psychiatric association

American Psychiatric Association (APA) is a professional organization of psychiatrists in the United States. Founded in 1844, the APA currently has over 38,500 members involved in psychiatric practice, research, and academia. Its mission is to ensure humane care and effective treatment for all persons with mental disorders, including intellectual disabilities and substance use disorders.

History

The American Psychiatric Association was founded in 1844 as the Association of Medical Superintendents of American Institutions for the Insane, with 13 original members. The name was changed to the American Medico-Psychological Association in 1892, and finally to its current name in 1921.

Activities

The APA conducts various activities to advance the science and profession of psychiatry. It organizes an annual meeting and other regional meetings throughout the year. The APA also publishes various books and journals, including the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), which is considered the standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals in the United States.

Governance

The APA is governed by a Board of Trustees and a larger Assembly of District Branches. The Board of Trustees is the governing body of the APA, while the Assembly is a representative body that ensures that the diverse voices of the APA's members are heard.

Criticism

The APA has been criticized for its reliance on the DSM, which some argue is overly reliant on a medical model of mental illness. The APA has also been criticized for its ties to the pharmaceutical industry.

See also

• Psychiatry
• Mental health
• Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders

External links

• Official website