Читать книгу Introduction to Abnormal Child and Adolescent Psychology - Robert Weis - Страница 37

Each DSM-5 disorder is defined by the presence of specific signs and symptoms. A sign is an overt feature of a disorder, whereas a symptom is a subjective experience associated with a disorder. For example, a sign of depression is weight loss or sluggish movement. In contrast, a symptom of depression is a subjective lack of appetite or energy. To be diagnosed with a given disorder, the individual must have the signs and symptoms described in the manual.

To illustrate the diagnostic approach used in DSM-5, consider the diagnostic criteria for a major depressive episode (Figure 1.1). Depression is characterized by a discrete period of time, lasting at least 2 weeks, in which a child or adolescent experiences a marked disturbance in mood. Children with depression typically experience sad, hopeless, or irritable moods most of the day and no longer engage in activities they previously enjoyed, such as spending time with family, playing games with friends, or engaging in hobbies and sports. Children with depression can also show a wide range of other cognitive, emotional, and physical problems. This mood disturbance causes distress or leads to problems at school, at home, or with peers (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Figure 1.1 ■ The DSM-5 Diagnostic Approach

Source: Reprinted with permission from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (Copyright 2013). American Psychiatric Association. All Rights Reserved.