Dsm-Iv vs. Dsm-Iv-Tr

Attribute	Dsm-Iv	Dsm-Iv-Tr
Number of disorders	297	297
Publication year	1994	2000
Changes in criteria	Some criteria were revised	Some criteria were further revised
Introduction of new disorders	Yes	Yes
Reorganization of disorders	Some reorganization	Further reorganization

Introduction

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is a classification system used by mental health professionals to diagnose and treat mental illnesses. The DSM has gone through several revisions over the years, with DSM-IV and DSM-IV-TR being two of the most widely used versions. In this article, we will compare the attributes of DSM-IV and DSM-IV-TR to highlight the changes and improvements made in the updated version.

Diagnostic Criteria

One of the key differences between DSM-IV and DSM-IV-TR is the diagnostic criteria used to classify mental disorders. DSM-IV had specific criteria for each disorder, with a focus on symptoms and duration. In contrast, DSM-IV-TR introduced dimensional assessments, which allowed for a more nuanced understanding of mental health conditions. This shift towards a dimensional approach in DSM-IV-TR was aimed at capturing the complexity and variability of mental disorders.

Classification System

Another important aspect to consider when comparing DSM-IV and DSM-IV-TR is the classification system used in each version. DSM-IV had a multiaxial system, which included five axes for assessing different aspects of a patient's mental health. However, DSM-IV-TR eliminated the multiaxial system and integrated all the information into a single axis. This change was made to streamline the diagnostic process and provide a more comprehensive evaluation of the patient's condition.

Changes in Disorders

DSM-IV-TR also introduced several changes in the classification of mental disorders compared to DSM-IV. For example, some disorders were reclassified, merged with other disorders, or had their diagnostic criteria revised. These changes were made based on new research findings, clinical observations, and feedback from mental health professionals. By updating the classification of disorders, DSM-IV-TR aimed to improve the accuracy and reliability of diagnoses.

Global Assessment of Functioning

One of the most significant changes in DSM-IV-TR was the replacement of the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scale with the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS). The GAF scale was criticized for its subjectivity and lack of reliability, leading to its removal in DSM-IV-TR. The WHODAS, on the other hand, provides a more standardized and objective measure of a patient's functioning, making it a more useful tool for clinicians.

Use in Clinical Practice

Despite the differences between DSM-IV and DSM-IV-TR, both versions are widely used in clinical practice for diagnosing and treating mental disorders. Mental health professionals are trained to use the criteria and guidelines outlined in the DSM to make accurate and reliable diagnoses. While DSM-IV-TR may offer some improvements over DSM-IV, both versions serve as valuable resources for clinicians in the field of mental health.