What is the ‘standard’ psychological test currently used to diagnose mental illness?
A Legal insanity
B Abnormal Psychology Manual
C Diagnostic and Statistical Manual
D Involuntary incapacitation
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: C) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual
The standard psychological tool currently used to diagnose mental illness is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, often abbreviated as DSM. This manual is published by the American Psychiatric Association and is widely accepted in both clinical and research settings. The most recent version as of now is the DSM-5-TR, which stands for the Fifth Edition, Text Revision.
The DSM provides standardized criteria for diagnosing a wide range of mental health disorders. It categorizes disorders based on symptom patterns, duration, and level of impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. For example, disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) all have detailed descriptions in the manual. These descriptions include specific diagnostic criteria that help mental health professionals ensure consistency and reliability when making diagnoses.
This manual is crucial because mental health conditions can be complex and present differently in different people. Without a standardized guide like the DSM, diagnoses would be much more subjective and inconsistent. The manual also plays an important role in determining what treatments are appropriate, guiding research, and helping with insurance reimbursement in many countries.
It is important to note that the DSM is not used to determine legal status, such as insanity or involuntary commitment, though it may inform such decisions. Legal insanity and involuntary incapacitation are legal terms decided through court processes. The Abnormal Psychology Manual is not an official diagnostic tool but rather an academic resource often used in educational settings.
In summary, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual remains the central and standard reference used in the mental health field for diagnosing mental disorders in both clinical and academic settings.