January 2012
Practice Note
DSM-5 Sign-On Letter
The Humanistic Psychology Society, Division 32 of the American Psychological Association, has prepared a sign-on letter to the DSM-5 Task Force that seeks support from mental health professionals and organizations.  The letter raises several controversial concerns about the proposed DSM-5 which include changes in the definition of mental disorder, lower diagnostic thresholds, and lack of empirical findings. The letter requests the DSM-5 Task Force to submit controversial proposals for independent review. It is available online at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/dsm5/
NASW is monitoring the DSM-5 process and has not taken an official position regarding the concerns of the Humanistic Psychology Society.  NASW continues to provide feedback to the DSM-5 process and encourages its members to review the draft proposals and share their expertise with the DSM-5 Task Force during available DSM-5 comment periods and as appropriate. NASW also encourages its members to participate in the DSM-5 clinical trails. Information about the DSM-5 is available online at www.dsm5.org