Discussion : The DSM

At the heart of every great mystery lies a solution. Just as a good detective may use specific guidelines to gather evidence for a solution, so too might a good psychologist use set criteria to gather evidence for an accurate solution, or diagnosis.

Although detectives focus on who is responsible for the problem, psychologists focus on why and how the problem surfaced.

To make an accurate diagnosis, psychologists follow set diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM.

As a classification system for diagnosis, the DSM is important in the field, but current literature highlights the fact that, along with its strengths, limitations exist in it for accuracy in client diagnosis.

For this Discussion, consider the classification system of the DSM. Think about the relative strengths and limitations of this classification system in making a diagnosis.

With these thoughts in mind:

Post by Day 3 a brief description (two paragraphs) of the overall classification system of the DSM in your own words. Then discuss the strengths and limitations of the DSM.

Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources and current literature.