I'm just finishing up my third year of doctoral training in a clinical psychology program. I have been working at a university counseling center and since we also do disability accommodations, I found myself occasionally in a position of needing to do very quick, provisional diagnoses. My last clinical supervisor recommended the previous version of this book (DSM-IV-TR) for me because it was on her shelf, but she told me she was certain they'd made a DSM-5 version. I used it and it's absolutely fantastic for what I need to do, so I ordered the DSM-5 version. I haven't used the MSE stuff yet and don't need to at this particular site, but in any case where it's necessary to go through the diagnostic criteria of DSM-5 diagnoses and write up provisional diagnoses, this is perfect.
PROS: The questions aren't super leading, can be adapted based on your clinical judgment, and using a book like this can sometimes be non-stigmatizing and collaborative which can be good for rapport. Rather than being an opaque "expert" who is judging every little thing a client does or says and coming to conclusions using a process that the client can't really access, you can sit down with them and go through the diagnostic criteria one by one and see what they say to each. You can adapt the level of opaqueness based on client needs and personality.
Obviously there are limitations to the interview questions in the book, but I feel that clinicians would be well aware of this. Just to be thorough, first, this is probably best for provisional diagnoses - if I'm in a clinical relationship for longer than a session or two, I'm going to want to confirm, test, re-test, do rule-outs, do differential stuff, etc.
Secondly, you're not going to be able to diagnose personality disorders with this (or really anything formerly Axis II, or requiring a specialist to diagnose), nor should you. Again, a clinician should know this so I don't think anyone interested in this book will have a major problem with that.
Third, you need to use your clinical judgment when diagnosing, e.g., consider other evidence, use assessment data, consider secondary gains. You also need to use clinical judgment with the wording of the questions. Once again, clinicians with functioning brains know this so I'm preaching to the choir here. But the point is, don't become overly reliant on the book and know the major diagnoses and symptoms before going into it and you'll be fine.
Fourth, if for some reason you're not a clinician and you want to get this book to "diagnose" yourself or your friends for funsies, you really shouldn't. Given the limitations I've mentioned above, a book like this only makes sense in the hands of a skilled and knowledgeable clinician who can use the information gathered as part of a holistic diagnostic process. If you feel like you have a mental health diagnosis that is functionally impairing your life, seek help from a professional.
In short, if you are a good clinician (counselor, psychologist, psychiatrist) and know the limitations of the book, it becomes a remarkable tool in your hands. Slips easily into a briefcase or pocket, crazy cheap considering how expensive books are, and invaluable for thoroughly reviewing diagnostic criteria and providing ways to position questions to clients if you're worried about stigmatizing or offending them.
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Reviews with images
A must have for when you’re on the go!
Love this so far! It’s a great quick reference guide. I am a nurse and am not as familiar with the DSM as a clinician would be, so it’s geeat to have with me at all times. Regarding the negative reviews - yes it IS small - it’s a pocket edition and it’s dimensions are clearly shown in the description - FYI if you have poor eyesight you will need readers for this. It is certainly not a replacement for the DSM manual but it’s a lot easier to carry!
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Top reviews from other countries
Lauren Woods
Arrived in second hand condition
Reviewed in Australia on March 27, 2022Linda
Helpful little book that fits easily in a pocket.
Reviewed in Canada on December 31, 2020