Clinicians make use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; DSM-5) classification system to make diagnoses that will guide the choice of a treatment approach. As you read inFundamentals of Abnormal Psychology, however, the practice of diagnosing clients and the use of diagnostic categories and labels are sometimes subject to criticism. Some argue that diagnostic labels can cause harm. Others disagree, stating that diagnosis is an essential step in the clinical process as the clinician proceeds from assessment to diagnosis to treatment. In this week’s Assignment, you will evaluate both advantages and disadvantages of the practice of diagnosing and labeling psychological disorders. You will decide whether or not you are convinced that current diagnostic practices are acceptable.

To prepare for this Assignment:

Review the Learning Resources, paying close attention to diagnosis and classification in mental health settings. Note any specific advantages and disadvantages of the process of diagnosing and classification.

The Assignment (2–3 pages):

• Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of diagnosing and classifying psychological disorders. Include in your evaluation responses to the following prompts:
  • Evaluate theadvantagesof diagnosis and classification in mental health settings. Be specific and provide examples where appropriate.
  • Evaluate thedisadvantagesof diagnosis and classification in mental health settings. Be specific and provide examples where appropriate.
  • From a multicultural perspective, explain what issues might arise with respect to the assessment and diagnosis of individuals from different cultural backgrounds (review this table in the textbook: Multicultural Hot Spots in Assessment and Diagnosis).
  • Finally, based on your evaluations in the prior prompts, explain your position regarding the relative advantages and disadvantages of current diagnostic and classification practices, including an assessment of whether you believe the advantages outweigh the disadvantages or vice versa. Be sure to support your position.