The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual: Historical Observations

Abstract

A variety of social, political, and economic factors influenced the creation of the first Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
in 1952. Subsequent to DSM-I, cultural, medical, and economic factors shaped each successive version of the DSM; we discuss some of the
more prominent controversies these editions have generated. Publication of the DSM-5 in May 2013 sparked a new round of debates concerning
the possible impact on patients and society as a whole.