In the DSM, mental disorders are classified on the basis of ______.
A) abnormal behavior patterns
B) their frequency within clinical populations
C) underlying theoretical mechanisms
D) their response rates to various treatment methods

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) is a classification system of mental disorders based on abnormal behavior patterns. It categorizes mental disorders based on specific symptoms and criteria that are considered abnormal or atypical compared to social and cultural norms. Thus, option A is the correct answer. Option B is not entirely accurate since the prevalence of a disorder in clinical populations may vary depending on many factors, including access to healthcare and diagnostic procedures. Option C is not accurate because the DSM primarily focuses on observable symptoms and not on underlying theoretical mechanisms. Finally, option D is not accurate since a disorder's response rates to various treatments are not the primary basis for its classification in the DSM.

In the DSM, Mental Disorders Are Classified on the Basis