Deconstructing the DSM-III

Deconstruction is a form of analysis that accounts for the unconscious elements in all human constructions, especially linguistic constructions. The theory derives its tenets from psychoanalysis and linguistics. Because the third edition of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) facilitates communication among practitioners of differing theoretical backgrounds, deconstruction can be used to analyze the DSM-III. This article describes the basic ideas behind deconstruction, defines the linguistic dualities on which the DSM-III is based, and analyzes these dualities in the clinician-client relationship. The DSM-III and the DSM-III Case Book are used to examine the process of diagnosis; based on this analysis, practical considerations for clinicians are analyzed.