Question

What are some disadvantages of using the DSM? What are some of the limitations of the DSM? What is the construct of "shadow syndromes" and how does this relate to the DSM?

Answer 1

The DSM is also referred to the bible of therapists. The DSM helps to classify and diagnose disorders in people. However there are some drawbacks of using the DSM. The major disadvantage of using the DSM is that it labels people of having certain disorders. Labels that attach to people can have a huge impact on the lives of people. When people are attached with labels of mental illnesses, it becomes very easy for others to judge them. These labels can also affect the employment opportunities of such people. Another disadvantage is of using DSM is that it can lead to misdiagnosis or over diagnosis of the disorders. Sometimes people can be diagnosed with certain disorder just because they do not fit in with the criteria of the ideal behaviour. One important limitation of the DSM is that it lacks reliability and validity. Another limitation is that it does not suggest about treatment interventions.

Shadow syndrome involves mild forms of serious disorders like depression, autism, ADHD and anxiety. We as people have shadows of certain behaviors within us. If these shadows are prone to develop into a disorder then it is related to the DSM. Just like shadows, the DSM describes a number of behaviours that characterize a disorder.

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