Psychopathology: Classification and Etiology
7. Psychopathology and Diagnostic Frameworks
Diagnostic Systems
The classification of psychological disorders primarily relies on the DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) and the ICD-11 (International Classification of Diseases). These manuals provide standardized criteria to ensure reliability in diagnosis, though they are often critiqued for relying on categorical rather than dimensional models.
The Diathesis-Stress Model
This overarching paradigm suggests that psychopathology results from the interaction of a vulnerability (diathesis) — which can be genetic, biological, or psychological — and negative environmental experiences (stress).
Major Diagnostic Categories
In the context of schizophrenia, which of the following is considered a 'negative symptom'?
Negative symptoms refer to the absence or diminution of normal behaviors. Anhedonia is the inability to experience pleasure. The others are positive symptoms (excesses or distortions of normal functions).
Correct answer: Anhedonia
Bipolar and Related Disorders
Bipolar disorders are characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. The diagnosis hinges on the presence of manic or hypomanic episodes, often alternating with major depressive episodes.
Differentiating Bipolar Disorders
| Diagnosis | Manic Episodes | Depressive Episodes |
|---|---|---|
| Bipolar I Disorder | At least one full manic episode required. | Common, but not required for diagnosis. |
| Bipolar II Disorder | Only hypomanic episodes (never full mania). | At least one major depressive episode required. |
| Cyclothymic Disorder | Numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms. | Numerous periods of depressive symptoms (not full MDE). |
What term describes the simultaneous presence of two or more distinct psychiatric disorders in a patient?
Comorbidity is highly prevalent in psychopathology, such as the frequent co-occurrence of anxiety and depressive disorders.
Correct answer: Comorbidity