A newspaper editorialist argues that the use of the DSM-5 diagnostic labels is destructively anti-democratic, because it enables an elite corps of mental health professionals to subtly control the values and lifestyles of the rest of society. First give reasons supporting this argument, then defend the continued use of diagnostic labels.

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Social Studies

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14 May, 19:45

A newspaper editorialist argues that the use of the DSM-5 diagnostic labels is destructively anti-democratic, because it enables an elite corps of mental health professionals to subtly control the values and lifestyles of the rest of society. First give reasons supporting this argument, then defend the continued use of diagnostic labels.

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Jair Bishop · Answer 1

The 5th Edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders is a diagnostic tool published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). It serves as the principal authority for psychiatric diagnoses. Treatment recommendations as well as payment by Health Care providers are often determined by DSM classifications.

Reasons supporting the argument:

1 It is argued that Transparency is lacking due to a nondisclosure agreement.

2 Furthermore the fact that 70% of the task force members of the DSM have direct industrial ties makes it hard to deny industry influenced policy.

Defense:

1 The APA has already instituted a disclosure policy

2 The industrial ties are seen to be necessary for collaborative relationships among government, academia and industry.