Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 29, 2025

A Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Eating Disorder Analysis and Diagnosis
Published on: May 10, 2022
Is it time to discard the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in psycho-oncology?
Darren Haywood1, Roman Kotov2, Robert F Krueger3
1Human Performance Research Centre, INSIGHT Research Institute, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Mental Health, St. Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, Melbourne Medical School, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia; School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia.
Abstract:
The conceptual basis of psychopathology within cancer survivorship is critical, as the chosen conceptualisation informs assessment and explanatory models, as well as interventions and supportive care approaches. The validity of a chosen conceptualisation of psychopathology is therefore paramount for ensuring cancer survivors receive high-quality and efficacious care and support that can be iteratively improved via coordinated research efforts. In this paper, we discuss the traditional diagnostic approach to conceptualising psychopathology within cancer care, including the diagnostic system the 'Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders' (DSM) [1], and the significant issues it presents within cancer survivorship. We detail and discuss how an alternate conceptualisation of psychopathology may enhance both research and practice within psycho-oncology. We ultimately pose, and provide our perspective, on the question "Is it Time to Discard the DSM in Psycho-Oncology?"
Related Concept Videos
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
Psychosurgery
Historical Development of Psychosurgery
In the 1930s, Portuguese neurologist Antonio Egas Moniz introduced a surgical procedure designed...
Theoretical Approaches to Psychological Disorder
Biological approach
The biological approach posits that internal, organic factors are the primary causes of such disorders. This perspective emphasizes brain structure and function, genetic predispositions, and neurotransmitter imbalances. For example, schizophrenia has been associated with both genetic...
Treatment Strategies for Psychological Disorders
Psychological therapies focus on modifying emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through talking, interpreting, listening, rewarding, challenging, and modeling. Clinical psychologists, counselors, and social workers commonly practice psychotherapy. Clinical...
Introduction to Psychological Disorders
Deviant Behavior
Deviance in behavior refers to actions or thought patterns that significantly diverge from societal norms or...
Documentation of Nursing Diagnosis
In some settings, data-driven computerized decision support systems are in place, allowing for more accurate nursing diagnoses. The database within one of these systems includes diagnostic labels defining characteristics, activities, and indicators for nursing. A nurse enters...

