Compare and contrast the categorical and dimensional approaches to diagnosis.

What will be an ideal response?


The categorical approach essentially requires a yes/no decision regarding diagnoses; a client either “has” or “doesn’t have” a disorder. By contrast, the dimensional approach essentially eliminates yes/no categories and replaces them with a dimension or continuum on which client’s system can be placed. The categorical approach has always been used by DSM, so it is more familiar at this point; also, it facilitates communication and research. The dimensional approach can produce more accurate client descriptions, especially when dimensions are readily identifiable (as is most true with personality disorders).

Psychology

You might also like to view...

According to some research, jurors are not able to differentiate legitimate from flawed scientific research ___________________________

A. unless opposing expert testimony speaking to the legitimate research is offered. B. despite opposing expert testimony about the flaws of the research. C. both A and B D. neither A or B

Psychology

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) "Dietary Guidelines" recommend that Americans get ____ of their grain consumption through whole grains

a. at least one quarter c. at least one half b. at least one third d. at least three quarters

Psychology

When Bill looks at his lamp alternately with his left eye and right eye, the image seems to jump from one position to another. This phenomenon illustrates ______

a) the Gestalt principle of similarity b) retinal disparity c) interposition d) the Gestalt principle of proximity

Psychology

Although research shows that children become more effective problem solvers as they get older, even young children sometimes show remarkable problem-solving skills

Indicate whether the statement is true or false

Psychology