A psychoanalyst-liaison psychiatrist's overview of DSM III

There has been a groundswell of reaction, mostly favorable, to the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual. In this paper the author attempts to evaluate the Manual, which purports to provide an atheoretical and descriptive diagnostic model on its own ground, as well as from a psychodynamic and ego-psychological point of view. More specifically, the Manual is evaluated in terms of its usefulness in the diagnosis and management of the Somatoform Disorders, as well as other typical general hospital problems. This assessment raises many questions about the basic tenets of DSM III in general. Concomitantly, suggestions are made to enhance the reliability, validity, and clinical relevance of the Manual.