... collecting and communicating accurate public health statistics. The DSM consists of three major components: the diagnostic classification, the diagnostic criteria sets, and the descriptive text (American Psychiatric Association, 2003). Strengths of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders include that it provides a well designed standard, and comprehensive diagnostic tool for clinicians and researchers. It allows physicians to look at the complete psychological make-up of a person. DSM due to the way it is designed is applicable in a wide range of contexts and can be utilized by people in various orientations (American Psychiatric Association, 2003). It categorizes diagnostic information in a systematic manner by grouping individuals. This enables psychiatrists to diagnose extremely disturbed individuals based on similarities of behavior easily and concisely (Atkinson, Atkinson, Smith, Bem, & Nolen-Hoeksema, 1996). Clinicians and researchers can use the DSM manual easily and effectively. The DSM also hopes to achieve a greater consensus without ...

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