Diagnostic tool for mental illnesses

Question: Because of the DSM’s powerful influence, it is important to be aware of its limitations. Analyze the four limitations discussed in the text which are: the danger of overdiagnosis, the power of diagnostic label, the confusion of serious mental disorders with normal problems, and the illusion of objectivity.

(S) Psychology

Carole Wade & Carol Tavris, 2016

Pearson

ISBN.13: 978-0-134-24083-1

Sources are listed in two places.

The first, a citation, is briefly listed within your answer. This includes identifying information that directs the reader to your list of references at the end of your writing assignment.

The second, a reference, is at the end of your work in the list of references section.

All sources cited should follow APA style and provide enough identifying information so that the reader can access the original material

no plagerism

400 – 600 word count per question

Requirements: 400-600

Answer preview

Some critics posit that DSM diagnostic criteria aim to attain standardization through mental illness classification but fail to base its framework on empirical evidence. DSM has limited objectivity as aspects such as cultural considerations are not reflected in the tool (Wade & Tavris, 2016). In line with this argument, critics point out that the tool has only incorporated Western cultures and preferences, hence cultural bias in a tool expected to diagnose people from different cultural backgrounds. In addition, there may be reliability and consistency issues as healthcare professionals interpret mental health symptoms differently while using the tool as expected to rely on their judgment. The limitation posed by the DSMs calls for the need to revise the manuals to ensure that patients are not affected with the cases of overdiagnosis or underdiagnosis. There is the need to address the limitations such as cultural bias and other conflicting aspects of the tool to ensure that the efficiency of DSM tool is enhanced to enhance patient outcomes in the field of mental health.

Answer preview

mental illness classification but fail to base its framework on empirical evidence. DSM has limited objectivity as aspects such as cultural considerations are not reflected in the tool (Wade & Tavris, 2016). In line with this argument, critics point out that the tool has only incorporated Western cultures and preferences, hence cultural bias in a tool expected to diagnose people from different cultural backgrounds. In addition, there may be reliability and consistency issues as healthcare professionals interpret mental health symptoms differently while using the tool as expected to rely on their judgment. The limitation posed by the DSMs calls for the need to revise the manuals to ensure that patients are not affected with the cases of overdiagnosis or underdiagnosis. There is the need to address the limitations such as cultural bias and other conflicting aspects of the tool to ensure that the efficiency of DSM tool is enhanced to enhance patient outcomes in the field of mental health.

[567 Words]

Diagnostic tool for mental illnesses
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