[Is DSM IV of value in training of psychiatrists?]

Acquiring the skill to be a psychiatrist requires learning in three fields: academic, clinical and research. Academic training includes various kinds of objectives which are analysed and to which the DSM IV provides only an imperfect response. Clinical training which shapes clinical practice, requires the organization of knowledge: the DSM IV, in so far as it analyses and classifies data is a useful tool, but the utility is limited since the DSM IV is inherently biased towards a psychiatric view of illness. The utility of the DSM IV is analysed for research training, particularly with the triple goal of preparing for the manipulation of knowledge, for practical care, and for the transmission of knowledge.