Anxiety disorders

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) has expanded descriptions of anxiety and includes new categories with definitive diagnostic criteria. It has also eliminated its previous psychodynamic and psychoanalytic approach to psychopathology. The new anxiety classifications reflect the growth of knowledge in neurochemistry, especially cell-membrane binding sites and specific pharmacologic actions of certain drugs. Many research conclusions have become questionable as a result in large part of their reliance upon the obsolete versions of DSM (I and II). Among major findings in research on anxiety are its relatively common incidence, especially in family practice, and its relationship to secondary depression and increased association with physical disorders, particularly if the anxiety disorder is of long duration. Family and genetic studies have revealed a high incidence of anxiety within families, though there is little evidence of heritability. The pathophysiology of anxiety is only beginning to be studied productively. Research in drug therapy and psychotherapy have supported the need for both therapeutic modalities in most circumstances.