PTSD in DSM-5: Understanding the Changes
September 25, 2015
Despite the efforts of a dedicated Work Group, DSM-5 has not significantly changed the problems with PTSD that beset DSM-IV.
James Phillips, MD
DSM-5 Field Trials: What Was Learned
January 9, 2013
With DSM-5 now approved, all discussion has been removed from the DSM-5 Web site. According to the APA, the DSM-5 leadership moved to dimensional measures as one solution to the validity problem.
Gender Identity Disorder in Prison: Depending on a Diagnosis That Is Soon to Disappear?
September 28, 2012
A recent case has caused a flurry of opposing opinions. Not surprisingly, transgender advocacy groups have praised the judge's decision that the inmate in question has an eighth amendment right requiring the state to support and pay for sex reassignment surgery.
The Great DSM-5 Personality Bazaar
November 8, 2011
Both the DSM-5 Web site and Psychiatry News have recently heralded the proposed DSM-5 revision for diagnosis of personality disorders.
The Leaders’ Report on DSM-5
August 24, 2011
Regretfully, if we are to judge the progress of DSM-5 by the incoherence of a recent commentary by the Chair and Vice-chair of the DSM-5 Task Force, we have a lot to worry about.
Diagnosing Schizophrenia from DSM-II to DSM-5: A Quiz
July 13, 2011
DSM-II was published in 1968. DSM-5 will be published in 2013. How much progress have we made? I propose that we approach this question with a quiz.
DSM-5 and the NIMH Research Domain Criteria Project
April 14, 2011
The NIMH Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) project raises many questions about DSM-5 and future DSMs.
How to Use the DSM
January 27, 2011
In my previous blog, The Missing Person in the DSM, I questioned whether the DSM diagnostic manual classifies psychiatric disorders or the individuals suffering from diagnostic disorders—Ms Smith’s bipolar disorder, or Ms Smith, a person with bipolar disorder.
The Missing Person in the DSM
December 22, 2010
Here’s a question. As you sit across from your patient, what or whom are you treating: Ms Smith’s bipolar illness, or Ms Smith, a person with bipolar illness? The DSM leans toward the first choice.
Science Versus Pragmatism in the DSM: Finding A Middle Ground
November 18, 2010
The DSM does and must involve both science and pragmatism. It must use the science that is available, but it must also make countless judgment calls that are not grounded in solid empirical evidence—and surely it makes sense to consider practical consequences in doing the latter.
