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DSM-5

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) is a comprehensive classification system for mental disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). It serves as a critical tool for clinicians, researchers, and educators in the field of psychiatry and psychology. The DSM-5 provides standardized criteria for the diagnosis of mental health conditions, facilitating communication and research across the mental health community.

History

The DSM-5 was published in May 2013, succeeding the DSM-IV-TR, which was released in 2000. The development of the DSM-5 involved extensive research and collaboration among experts in psychiatry, psychology, and related fields. The revision process aimed to incorporate the latest scientific findings and address limitations identified in previous editions.

Structure

The DSM-5 is organized into three main sections:

Section I: Basics

This section provides an introduction to the DSM-5, including its purpose, structure, and use. It outlines the diagnostic classification system and the criteria for mental disorders.

Section II: Diagnostic Criteria and Codes

Section II contains the diagnostic criteria for each mental disorder. Disorders are grouped into categories based on similarities in symptoms and etiology. Each disorder entry includes diagnostic features, associated features supporting diagnosis, prevalence, development and course, risk and prognostic factors, and differential diagnosis.

Section III: Emerging Measures and Models

This section includes tools and models for further research and clinical practice. It features assessment measures, cultural formulation, and an alternative model for personality disorders.

Major Changes from DSM-IV

The DSM-5 introduced several significant changes from its predecessor:

• Reorganization of Disorders: Some disorders were reclassified into new categories. For example, "Autism Spectrum Disorder" now encompasses several previously separate disorders, such as Asperger's Syndrome.
• Removal of the Multiaxial System: The DSM-5 eliminated the multiaxial system used in DSM-IV, which categorized disorders across five axes.
• Introduction of New Disorders: New disorders, such as "Binge Eating Disorder" and "Hoarding Disorder," were added.
• Dimensional Assessments: The DSM-5 includes dimensional assessments for some disorders, allowing for the evaluation of symptom severity.

Criticism and Controversy

The DSM-5 has faced criticism from various quarters. Some mental health professionals argue that it pathologizes normal behavior, while others believe it lacks sufficient scientific basis for certain diagnoses. The inclusion and exclusion of specific disorders have also been points of contention.

Use in Clinical Practice

The DSM-5 is widely used by mental health professionals for diagnosing and classifying mental disorders. It provides a common language for clinicians to communicate about patient care and facilitates research into mental health conditions.

Also see

• ICD-10
• Mental Health
• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• American Psychiatric Association