Give a brief explanation of the classification system from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV).

Answer:

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Axis I has to do with clinical syndromes. These syndromes are psychological disorders that are the most common of all disorders, and they usually develop after adolescence, except for specific childhood disorders such as learning disabilities, speech disorders, ADHD, and bedwetting. Axis II concerns personality disorders and mental retardation. These disorders are long lasting and some are considered to have biological causes. Axis III has to do with physical conditions that have an effect on mental health, while Axis IV is concerned with psychosocial or environmental influences on mental health. Axis V rates symptoms on a scale of 0 to 100 and categorizes functioning on a scale ranging from severe dysfunction to moderate and superior functioning. Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Axis I has to do with clinical syndromes. These syndromes are psychological disorders that are the most common of all disorders, and they usually develop after adolescence, except for specific childhood disorders such as learning disabilities, speech disorders, ADHD, and bedwetting. Axis II concerns personality disorders and mental retardation. These disorders are long lasting and some are considered to have biological causes. Axis III has to do with physical conditions that have an effect on mental health, while Axis IV is concerned with psychosocial or environmental influences on mental health. Axis V rates symptoms on a scale of 0 to 100 and categorizes functioning on a scale ranging from severe dysfunction to moderate and superior functioning.