The multidimensionality of psychopathology in a community sample

Some researchers have advocated the use of rating scales that measure global constructs such as mental health or psychological distress. Others have advocated the use of discrete diagnostic categories. Using multidimensional scaling, we examine whether there is a single dimension of psychopathology among community respondents or whether there are distinct types. We find that psychopathology is multidimensional: distinct clusters of symptoms including physiological malaise, antisocial attitudes, demoralization, mistrust, and alcoholism appear. We conclude with a synthesis of the two approaches to measuring psychopathology.