5.1 Introduction to Psychological Disorders

Defining Psychological Disorders

A psychological disorder is a pattern of behavioral or mental dysfunction that causes significant distress or impairment in daily functioning, and that is atypical of the person's culture. Clinicians use DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual) criteria to diagnose disorders, ensuring consistent labels across professionals.

Explaining Disorders: Models

The medical model treats disorders as illnesses with physical causes (like brain chemistry) treatable with therapy or medication. The biopsychosocial model views disorders as arising from an interaction of biological (genetics, brain), psychological (thoughts, stress responses), and sociocultural (family, culture) factors — the dominant modern approach.

Classifying & Labeling Disorders

The DSM-5 provides diagnostic labels and criteria, improving reliability of diagnosis but raising concerns about overdiagnosis and stigma. Labeling someone with a disorder can affect how others perceive and treat them, sometimes creating self-fulfilling expectations, even though diagnosis aims to guide effective treatment.

Key terms

Psychological disorder

A pattern of behavioral or mental dysfunction causing significant distress or impairment, atypical for one's culture.

DSM-5

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition — provides standardized criteria for diagnosing disorders.

Medical model

Views psychological disorders as illnesses with physical causes, treatable through therapy or medication.

Biopsychosocial model

Explains disorders as the interaction of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors.

Stigma (in diagnosis)

Negative labeling and social consequences that can result from being diagnosed with a psychological disorder.

Try an AP-style question

Which is a key criterion for diagnosing a psychological disorder?

1. Having strong opinions
2. Being unusually talented
3. Significant distress or impairment
4. Being different from family