Suggestions for further improvement of the international classification of mental disorders

Abstract

SYNOPSISThe 8th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) favoured classification of mental disorders by a combination of predominant syndrome and predominant aetiology. However, this important principle has been carried through incompletely, to the disadvantage of diagnostic flexibility and innovation. In addition, too much work is required for the retrieval of cases with the same aetiology irerspective of the syndromes they exhibit, or of cases with the same syndrome whether in the setting of a personality disorder, a neurosis, or a psychosis. The present paper suggests certain simplifications by which the principle of combined classification can hopefully be applied to develop a more comprehensive and flexible instrument.