The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, more commonly known as the DSM, is published by the American Psychiatric Association and aims to list and describe all mental disorders. The publication of DSM-V in 2013 brought many changes. Diagnosing the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders is written for all those who wonder whether the DSM-V now classifies the right people in the right way. It is aimed at patients, mental health professionals, and academics with an interest in mental health. Issues addressed include: * What are the main changes that have been made to the classification? * How is the DSM affected by financial links with the pharmaceutical industry? * To what extent were patients involved in revising the classification? * How are diagnoses added to the DSM? * Does medicalisation threaten the idea that anyone is normal? * What happens when changes to diagnostic criteria mean that people lose their diagnoses? * How important will the DSM be in the future?

About the Author
Rachel Cooper studied for her PhD in History and Philosophy of Science at Cambridge University, and is currently a Senior Lecturer in Philosophy at Lancaster University, U.K. She works mainly on conceptual problems around the classification of mental disorders. Her previous publications include 'Classifying Madness' (Springer, 2005) and 'Psychiatry and the Philosophy of Science' (Acumen, 2007).

Reviews
'In remarkably clear prose, noted philosopher Rachel Cooper provides an even-handed guide through many of the most controversial issues surrounding the development of the DSM-5. Both laypersons and professionals will find this succinct book the ideal starting point for understanding current psychiatric diagnoses.'- Allan V. Horwitz, Board of Governors, Professor of Sociology, and Acting Director, Institute for Health, Health Care Policy, and Aging Research, Rutgers University'This is a fascinating and rich exploration of the DSM-5, a text with profound theoretical and practical impact on the world of mental health. The book is written with impressive clarity, focusing on the important issues stemming from the DSM and explaining them simply, clearly, and intelligently. Using her philosophical acumen, as well as her extensive research in the history of psychiatry, Cooper has fashioned a unique book, which I am certain will become a classic in the field.'- Havi Carel, University of Bristol and author of Illness: The Cry of the Flesh



Book Information
ISBN 9781855758254
Author Rachel Cooper
Format Paperback
Page Count 96
Imprint Karnac Books
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd