Classifying Psychological Disorders Psychology classifies disorders to: Describe the disorder Predict the future course of the disorder Treat the disorder appropriately Provide a springboard for research into the disorder’s causes

DSM-5 The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, a widely used system for classifying psychological disorders. Lists and describes all the currently accepted categories of mental disorders

DSM-5 Divides mental disorders into 18 clinical syndromes Includes the symptoms but not the causes of each disease

Labeling Disorders Labeling Stigmas – Studies show a clear bias against people diagnosed with mental disorders.