H M van Praag1. 1. Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School for Neuroscience, Maastricht University, The Netherlands.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: My purpose is to critically evaluate psychiatry's current approach to the diagnosis of depression. METHODS: I have closely examined trends in diagnosing depression, especially since DSM-III, and have considered alternative options. RESULTS/ CONCLUSIONS: Psychiatric taxonomy is currently based on invalid nosological premises that have worked as a strait jacket for conceptual progress and related biological and psychopharmacological research. A fresh approach that replaces nosological analysis with the concepts of functionalisation and verticalisation is essential.
OBJECTIVE: My purpose is to critically evaluate psychiatry's current approach to the diagnosis of depression. METHODS: I have closely examined trends in diagnosing depression, especially since DSM-III, and have considered alternative options. RESULTS/ CONCLUSIONS: Psychiatric taxonomy is currently based on invalid nosological premises that have worked as a strait jacket for conceptual progress and related biological and psychopharmacological research. A fresh approach that replaces nosological analysis with the concepts of functionalisation and verticalisation is essential.