The Role and Importance of the "D" in PTSD
Abstract
In December 2012, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) board of trustees voted on changes to the new edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Among the decisions was one to retain the word disorder in the term posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). U.S. Army leadership initially requested the change in terminology, stating that the word disorder is stigmatizing and that removing it would encourage more individuals suffering from symptoms to access care. Although the APA has issued its ruling, the term posttraumatic stress (PTS) is being used informally by some individuals within military communities. It is unclear whether informal use of the term will continue, or whether military leaders will continue to advocate future changes to the DSM. Our intent is to further the discussion regarding the removal or revision of the term disorder. We explore the rationales for not changing the diagnostic terminology, and to the extent possible, anticipate what the effects of widespread informal use of new terminology might be.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA585210
Entities
People
- Michael P. Fisher
- Terry L Schell
Organizations
- RAND Corporation