In 2013, the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) was published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). A Student?s Guide to DSM-5 is an invaluable summary resource for University psychology students, to help understand the major implications of the DSM-5 within an Australian context. The Publication Covers: * What the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual is and how it is used in practice by mental health professionals * The implications of diagnosing a person with a mental disorder, including the issue of stigma versus the importance of diagnosis to subsequent funding and access to services and treatment * The major differences between DSM-IV and DSM-5 * The major new diagnoses in DSM-5 * Both positive and negative reactions to various aspects of the DSM-5 by professional bodies * How the DSM-5 can contribute to the treatment of psychiatric disorders and further research into mental health.

Author Biography

Dr Gavin Beccaria is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Sciences, Department of Psychology, at the University of Southern Queensland. He teaches clinical psychology in both the undergraduate and graduate programs, and also works part-time in private practice as a clinical psychologist. Prior to moving into academia, he was the Director of Psychology at the Toowoomba Health Service and managed 35 psychologists. He has worked with peopleof all ages in a number of setings, including the community, local hospitals and tertiary mental health facilities, and has treated people with severe mental illness. A winner of a Faculty Early Career Teaching Award, Gavin?s current research interests include evaluating clinical and counselling interventions, and problem-solving training.