Aportaciones y limitaciones del DSM-5 desde la psicología clínica

Abstract

The recent release of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition) by the American Psychiatric Association has led to much debate. An effective classification requires a reliable and valid system for categorization of clinical phenomena in order to aid communication, select interventions, indicate aetiology, predict outcomes, and provide a basis for research. DSM-5 remains a categorical classification of separate disorders, but mental disorders do not always fit completely within the boundaries of a single disorder. There are some interesting contributions of DSM-5, such as the chapters of addictions and of personality disorders. Addiction label has also been given to behavioral excesses that have no external substance as a goal (e.g. gambling disorder). Personality disorders remain unchanged, but there is an alternative model in Section III based on a dimensional approach which might replace the current categories. The basic reason for controversy is the expansiveness of DSM-5 psychiatric diagnosis, both in terms of newly introduced categories and loosening the criteria for diagnosis in existing categories. Unanswered questions for future research in this field are commented upon. © 2014 by Sociedad Chilena de Psicología Clínica.