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Classification of amok in DSM-IV
1Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA 01730.
Hospital & Community Psychiatry
|August 1, 1992
Summary
Culture-bound syndromes like amok, characterized by homicidal frenzy and amnesia, are often overlooked. This study proposes classifying amok as a culture-specific explosive behavioral disorder in DSM-IV for better recognition.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Cultural Anthropology
- Medical Sociology
Background:
- Culture-bound syndromes are globally recognized but often classified as rare and exotic.
- Existing diagnostic systems like DSM-IV and ICD-10 provide an opportunity for improved classification.
- Amok, a syndrome from Malaysia, involves brooding, homicidal frenzy, and subsequent amnesia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the culture-specific syndrome of amok.
- To discuss the criteria for classifying culture-specific disorders.
- To propose a classification for amok within the DSM-IV framework.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on amok.
- Analysis of the characteristics of culture-bound syndromes.
- Application of diagnostic criteria for culture-specific disorders.
Main Results:
- Amok presents as a distinct syndrome with specific behavioral and psychological features.
- The concept of culture-specific disorders requires careful consideration of cultural context.
- Amok fits the criteria for a culture-specific disorder.
Conclusions:
- Amok should be recognized as a culture-specific disorder.
- Classification as a culture-specific explosive behavioral disorder in DSM-IV is proposed.
- Improved classification enhances understanding and attention to these phenomena.