This forward-thinking volume grapples with critical questions surrounding the mechanisms underlying mental disorders and the systems used for classifying them. Edited and written by leading international authorities, many of whom are actively involved with the development of DSM-V and ICD-11, the book integrates biological and psychosocial perspectives. It provides balanced analyses of such issues as the role of social context and culture in psychopathology and the pros and cons of categorical versus dimensional approaches to diagnosis. Cutting-edge diagnostic instruments and research methods are reviewed. Throughout, contributors highlight the implications of current theoretical and empirical advances for understanding real-world clinical problems and developing more effective treatments. "DSM-IV has had tremendous effects--both positive and negative--on clinical practice and research. Will DSM-V be an improvement? This exceptional book explores such crucial issues as whether the diagnostic categories have construct validity, how symptom diagnoses relate to personality, the impact of culture on classification, and how to base the diagnostic process in neurobiology. This book is a 'must' for anyone who wonders how the DSM could be made more clinically relevant. You will not find a more sophisticated discussion of the essential issues in psychiatric diagnosis anywhere else."--John F. Clarkin, PhD, Co-Director, Personality Disorders Institute, New York Presbyterian Hospital; Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medical College "This is an impressive volume. Millon, Krueger, and Simonsen have assembled a stellar group of experts to provide up-to-date, scholarly, and innovative analyses of critical issues in psychopathology. Essential reading for any one interested in understanding the challenges facing contemporary psychopathology and psychiatric nosology. The breadth and depth of the contributions will appeal both to experienced practitioners and researchers and to students training for the various mental health professions."--W. John Livesley, MD, PhD, Department of Psychiatry (Emeritus), University of British Columbia, Canada "The time is ripe for a major reconsideration of the principles to be employed in any diagnostic classification, and this admirable volume does just that. The aim is not to present a new list of'facts,' but rather to enable people to think clearly and critically about such key issues as whether to use dimensions or categories or prototypes, how to deal with comorbidity, the harmful dysfunction construct, and the interconnections between personality and mental disorders. The real value of the book lies in getting people to put aside prejudice and dogma and think creatively instead. The approaches discussed are practical and clinically relevant. This volume is essential reading for anyone with the slightest interest in classification and diagnosis. No one is likely to agree with everything in this wonderful book, but you will think more clearly after reading it. A substantial volume, full of wisdom and interest."--Michael Rutter, MD, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom