Discussion Board
The two strengths that I noticed about the DSM-IV-TR is the fact that it is the standard for psychologist and the 5 axis diagnosis. It is imperative for all psychologists to be aware of the DSM-IV-TR to assist in diagnosing and treating their clients. The DSM-IV-TR will continue to be revised due to technology and the new information received on a daily basis. The manual does not have all the answers, but it is the first step to helping your patient. According to Dr. Marszalek the DSM-IV-TR provides common language to clinicians in the field. (Laureate Education, 2007).
The 5 axis diagnosis was very descriptive and easy to follow. This approach is used because there are usually other factors that affect a person mental health. It is broken down by clinical syndromes, developmental and personality disorders, physical conditions, severity of psychosocial stressors, and highest level of functioning. (DSM-IV-TR). It is apparent that stress is a factor in a lot if disorders.
Two limitations of the manual are comorbidity and labeling. Comorbidity is a problem, because it means that two or more identified disorders were recognized in the same individual. (Butcher, Mineka, & Hooley, Abnormal Psychology, 2010). It is imperative that the correct diagnosis is given to ensure the correct and proper treatment of your client. Once more information is received and the manual is used this vital with your assessment. Dr. Marszalek described his initial assessment process and it was quite informative. ( Laureate Education, 2007). Labeling can be an issue, because once a person is labeled further inquiry might cease. (Butcher, Mineka, & Hooley, Abnormal Psychology, 2010). That is a limitation, because there might be more underlying issues and it appears that labeling can cause some bias behavior toward the client. Once that happens the description of the label has a tendency to be used instead the client’s actual symptoms. (Butcher, Mineka, & Hooley, Abnormal
The 5 axis diagnosis was very descriptive and easy to follow. This approach is used because there are usually other factors that affect a person mental health. It is broken down by clinical syndromes, developmental and personality disorders, physical conditions, severity of psychosocial stressors, and highest level of functioning. (DSM-IV-TR). It is apparent that stress is a factor in a lot if disorders.
Two limitations of the manual are comorbidity and labeling. Comorbidity is a problem, because it means that two or more identified disorders were recognized in the same individual. (Butcher, Mineka, & Hooley, Abnormal Psychology, 2010). It is imperative that the correct diagnosis is given to ensure the correct and proper treatment of your client. Once more information is received and the manual is used this vital with your assessment. Dr. Marszalek described his initial assessment process and it was quite informative. ( Laureate Education, 2007). Labeling can be an issue, because once a person is labeled further inquiry might cease. (Butcher, Mineka, & Hooley, Abnormal Psychology, 2010). That is a limitation, because there might be more underlying issues and it appears that labeling can cause some bias behavior toward the client. Once that happens the description of the label has a tendency to be used instead the client’s actual symptoms. (Butcher, Mineka, & Hooley, Abnormal
References: Butcher, J. N., Mineka, S., & Hooley, J. M. (2010). Abnormal psychology (14th ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon. Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2007). Diagnosis and assessment. Baltimore, MD: Author. "DSM" with Dr. John Marszalek. American Psychiatric Association. (2000). DSM-IV-TR. Arlington, VA: Author