Measuring Psychopathology

by Farmer, Anne; McGuffin, Peter; Williams, Julie

• ISBN13: 9780192630803
• ISBN10: 0192630806
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2002-03-28
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

Measuring Psychopathology describes the methods by which the signs and symptoms of mental disorder are elicited. Written for the non-clinical researcher as well as for those with clinical experience, the authors start by considering the question "what is psychopathology?" They tehn employ a historical perspective to explain why and how mental disorders are currently classified, and how the use of an operational approach to diagnosis was adopted. The use of operational crtieria to define psychiatric disorder has facilitated the development of standardised interviewing techniques, questionnaires and rating scales. These tools are all covered in some detail, not only with regard to adults with mental disorders, but also with reference to special and challenging groups such as children and the elderly, and those with a learning disability, substance misuse, or who have a personality disorder. The strengths and weaknesses of current methodologies are explored and debated as well as the future diagnostic needs for research in the 21st century. Essential reading for clinicians and non-clinical scientists engaged in research on psychiatric disorders, trainees and junior psychiatrists, and clinical psychologists.

Table of Contents

What is psychopathology

Describing symptoms and signs

Defining and classifying disorders

Validity, reliability and utility

Diagnostic interviews

Polydiagnostic approaches, computerised methods and best estimate diagnoses

Rating scales: screening, observer and self rating questionnaires

Measuring psychopathology in specific subject groups

Personality and personality disorders

References

Appendix: websites for further information

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