Dear Michael Kasdaglis:
   Do you realize that less than half of the forty most common diagnoses
had *any* research done on the reliability of criteria (or devloping
reliable measures of diagnostic criteria) between DSM-III-R and the
compiling of all the relevant data for DSM-IV ? (Source:  DSM-IV Sourcebook
Vol.2)  All scientists realize that good classification is the starting
point of science.  Today less than half of dianoses would be said to show
good reliability.  In fact, mathematically, on average, at least 25% of the
cases of disorders are MISSED (based on the reliablities shown).
   A bit of REAL day to day science practioner work, with clinicians within
each local agency working together to developing reliabilities, ETC.
(instead of waiting for pronouncements from committees) would help one hell
of a lot.  This, I have argued is essential in this human science.  Role up
your sleaves and quit whining.  regards, brad

 >Dear List;
>
>I have a personal request.... If members of the list feel my request is
>not appropriate, I would welcome comments in this regard.
>
>I would like to see a discussion on the following aspects of Mental
>Health Diagnostics:
>
>1.      A Definition
>2.      Its need and importance within Mental Health as a practice vs Mental
>Health as the object of study.
>3.      The absolute and necessary elements within a diagnostic impression
>4.      Should they include Labs, such as DST, MHPG, Fraction-8
>Chatecholomines, Serotonin AM/PM, T3-T4, etc.
>5.      Should the diagnosis include a present family systems assessment...
>and if yes, what variables ought to be included -excluding historical
>material.
>6.      Should there be a specialty (within Mental Health) comprised of
>professionals with interdisciplinary training.
>7.      To what extent should psychometrics be included, and what specific
>instruments are a MUST
>8.      Should there be an Ego_Functions section within every Diagnostic
>Summary.
>
>The request is personal in that, I -we- are about to refine our
>position, definition, and mission for The American Board of Diagnostics.
>Your help, and/or references, will be greately appreciated.
>Also, if you wish for your name not to be quoted, please do state so.
>
>Michael Kasdaglis