Abstract
Violent behavior per se does not constitute a diagnosable syndrome of psychopathology. In delineating the characteristics of diagnosable mental disorders, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-III; American Psychiatric Association, 1980) states,
In DSM-III each of the mental disorders is conceptualized as a clinically significant behavioral or psychological syndrome that occurs in an individual and is typically associated with either a painful symptom (distress) or impairment in one or more important areas of functioning (disability). In addition, there is an inference that there is a behavioral, psychological, or biological dysfunction, and that the disturbance is not only in the relationship between the individual and society. (p. 6)
Violent behavior does not meet these criteria and is therefore not included as a mental disorder.
This research was supported in part by MH Grant No. MH13202 (National Institute of Mental Health, Center for Studies of Crime and Delinquency). All statements and opinions expressed are those of the investigator and do not represent the official opinions, policies or attitudes of NIMH.
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Megargee, E.I. (1984). Aggression and Violence. In: Adams, H.E., Sutker, P.B. (eds) Comprehensive Handbook of Psychopathology. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-6681-6_19
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