A new diagnostic scheme for disorders of behavior, emotion, and learning based on organism environment interaction. Part 1. Theory

Abstract

In part I of this paper, a scheme was proposed for a dimensional analysis of the variables underlying psychopathological and learning disorders. Two types of nervous system handicap, aporia and diaphoria, and two loci of impairment, nonspecific and specific functions were postulated to interact with environmental factors, ecopathy, in the genesis of pathology. Ecopathic factors alone were seen as capable of generating outcomes equivalent to those that follow nervous system handicap, although such conditions were generally thought to be more amenable to change. Part II has two purposes: first, to present methods for implementing the scheme in diagnosis and treatment with currently available clinical and laboratory technology, and second, to consider research problems and strategy to test, refine, and further develop the scheme.