In 1967, After the DSM Had Been in Use for 15

question 242

Essay

In 1967, after the DSM had been in use for 15 years, Abraham Kaplan wrote that "If you give a small boy a hammer, it will turn out that everything he runs into needs pounding." How does this quote relate to the dangers of overdiagnosis? The analogy of a boy with a hammer seems fitting given the popularity of the ADHD diagnosis among young boys. Use ADHD to illustrate the issue of overdiagnosis.

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Definitions:

Selling Price

The amount at which a product or service is offered to customers for purchase.

Opportunity Cost

The benefit that is missed or given up when choosing one alternative over another.

Cash Outlay

The total amount of money spent on a particular purchase or investment.

Alternative Investments

Investments in asset classes other than stocks, bonds, and cash, such as real estate, hedge funds, or commodities.