Why Has It Been Proposed That a Dimensional Approach to Classification

question 55

Multiple Choice

Why has it been proposed that a dimensional approach to classification should be adopted in the DSM?

• A) People who need help may not be receiving it because they fall short of diagnostic criteria.
• B) There are too few categories to cover every possible disorder.
• C) Either people have a mental disorder or they do not.
• D) Stigmatization occurs far too often when people are categorized.
• E) Clinicians would find it much easier to agree on who should receive a diagnosis and who should not.

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Definitions:

Token Economy

A form of behavior modification that uses tokens or symbols as reinforcement for desired behaviors, which can be exchanged for rewards.

Classical Conditioning

A learning process that occurs through associations between an environmental stimulus and a naturally occurring stimulus, famously demonstrated by Pavlov’s dogs.

Systematic Desensitization

A therapeutic technique used to gradually reduce anxiety or fear towards a particular object or situation by slowly exposing the patient to the fear source while in a state of relaxation.

Token Economy

A behavioral modification technique that involves providing tokens as rewards for desired behaviors, which can later be exchanged for privileges or treats.