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The DSM Model of Impairment

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Assessing Impairment

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Abstract

The primary purpose of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is to provide a consistent and evidence-based diagnostic system to guide clinicians in practice. An additional goal of the DSM is to facilitate research through delineation of objectively defined and measurable variables within mental health syndromes. This research has both national and international implications for identifying early risk factors, understanding prognosis, and validating the efficacy of treatments. The organizers of the DSM sought to achieve these purposes by providing clear and explicit criteria for diagnosis (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2000). The arduous process of developing this classification system required consensus among a wide range of professional orientations within psychology, ranging from biological to psychodynamic perspectives. The manual has provided a nomenclature that is shared within the fields of psychology and medicine as well as across settings (e.g., hospitals, private practice, social service agencies). The utilization of a common taxonomy ensures more accurate identification of patient needs and can assist in documenting justification for prompt access to services. Finally, the manual is utilized to shape national policy issues through documentation of mental health statistics and as an educational tool to educate readers about psychopathology.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, FL 32611-7047, USA

    Diana K. Joyce

  2. School Psychology Program, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, TX 77204-5019, USA

    Allison G. Dempsey (Assistant Professor)

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  1. Diana K. Joyce
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  2. Allison G. Dempsey
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    Joyce, D.K., Dempsey, A.G. (2009). The DSM Model of Impairment. In: Naglieri, J., Goldstein , S. (eds) Assessing Impairment. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-387-87542-2_7

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