Dr. Robert Spitzer: "DSM-V process can hardly be described as 'transparent' and

[Shana A]

Dr. Robert Spitzer: "DSM-V process can hardly be described as 'transparent' and 'open'"
by: Autumn Sandeen
Wed Dec 31, 2008 at 17:00:00 PM EST

http://pamshouseblend.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=8870

The Los Angeles Times has a recent piece out (December 29, 2008) on how the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, entitled DSM psychiatry manual's secrecy criticized. DSM-IV-TRThe subheader for the piece is The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders is being revised under a cloak of confidentiality. Critics say the process needs to be open, and cite potential conflicts of interest. From the article:

    An update is underway for the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, known as the DSM, which defines the emotional problems for which doctors prescribe drugs and insurance companies pay the treatment bills. Psychiatrists working on the new edition were required to sign a strict confidentiality agreement.

    Critics contend that the American Psychiatric Assn. should allow outside observers to review the scientific debate behind new and revised diagnoses.