What is the DSM-5?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-5, is the current official guidebook for categorizing and diagnosing psychiatric mental health disorders in the United States. It describes more than 260 specific psychological disorders, including symptoms and criteria that must be met to make a diagnosis. The DSM-5 has increased the number of disorders classified over the years. One critique is that there are some conditions that are too “normal” to be considered disorders.

What is a Psychological Disorder?

A psychological disorder is a pattern of behavioral or psychological symptoms; causes significant personal distress; impairs the ability to function in one or more important areas of life; represents serious departure from prevailing social and cultural norms

Word of Caution

This section does not serve as a clinical diagnostic tool nor a comprehensive definition of any identified disorder. Rather it is designed to summarize characteristics and symptoms of possible underlying disorders. When identifying a disorder, it is import to first follow 6 steps to rule out other influences and causes.

1.      Rule out malingering and factitious disorder. The client must be truthful about their symptoms.

2.      Rule out substance abuse and medications.

3.      Rule out medical disorders and causes.

4.      Determine the primary disorder or the most likely disorder. Secondary and dual disorders are possible, but first determine the primary affliction.

5.      When symptoms do not fully meet diagnostic criteria, do not force a diagnosis. Disorder may be classified as either and Adjustment Disorder or one of the residual Other Specified or Unspecified categories.

6.      Determine a clear boundary between closely related disorders. Also identify and comorbid disorders. 

Psychological Tools and Measures: https://www.psychologytools.com/download-scales-and-measures/