Various researchers have been developing alternatives to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (fifth edition; DSM-5). However, most clinicians are too busy to keep up with progress on these alternatives. Therefore, this article serves as a "primer" for clinicians by introducing four alternatives to the DSM-5 that are currently garnering significant attention: International Classification of Diseases (10th and 11th editions), Psychodynamic Diagnostic Manual-2, hierarchical taxonomy of psychopathology, and power threat meaning framework. The research domain criteria research initiative is also briefly discussed. The basics of each alternative system are presented and their primary strengths and weaknesses identified. All four systems show promise but have significant obstacles to overcome before they can be deemed viable substitutes for the DSM-5.
Public Significance StatementThis article offers a "primer" on several systems that can serve as either alternatives or supplements to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (fifth edition; DSM-5) in the diagnosis, conceptualization, and formulation of mental health concerns. Offering an invaluable resource to clinicians, students, and the lay public, the authors summarize the strengths and weaknesses of the International Classification of Diseases (10th and 11th editions), Psychodynamic Diagnostic Manual-2, hierarchical taxonomy of psychopathology, and power threat meaning framework, while also briefly mentioning the research domain criteria research initiative. Keywords: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), International Classification of Diseases (ICD), Psychodynamic Diagnostic Manual-2 (PDM-2), hierarchical taxonomy of psychopathology (HiTOP), power threat meaning framework (PTMF)GABRIELLE PHILLIPS received her master's degree in mental health counseling from the State University of New York at New Paltz. She is a mental health counselor at Step One Child and Family Guidance Center in Ulster County, New York. Ms. Phillips' research interests include how clients make sense of their symptoms and diagnoses, as well as how these meanings impact clients' concepts of self and their perceived ability to succeed. JONATHAN D. RASKIN received his doctorate in counseling psychology from the University of Florida. He is a professor of psychology and counselor education at the State University of New York at New Paltz, where he serves as chair of the Department of Psychology. Dr. Raskin's research applies constructive meaning-based approaches to understanding abnormality, counseling, and psychotherapy. He is the author of Abnormal Psychology: Contrasting Perspectives, coeditor of the Journal of Constructivist Psychology, and a licensed psychologist with an active private practice.