On this episode of Sanity, Dr. Jason Duncan and Dr. Jonathan Abramowitz continue their discussion on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, or the DSM. Specifically, they take an in-depth look at anxiety and obsessive compulsive and related disorders. Dr. Abramowitz discusses the main differences between OCD and other disorders, such as hair-pulling (trichotillomania), and how focusing on the mechanisms of each disorder is the most important part so someone can receive effective treatment. He also shares information about an alternative model to the DSM focused on biological processes; however, this model is not without its own issues. Despite its many problems, Dr. Duncan and Dr. Abramowitz concede the DSM is the best tool clinicians and other mental health professionals have, but it should continue to be criticized so it can be improved for years to come. Tune in to hear more about this extremely important conversation regarding the future of the field!

Dr. Abramowitz is a Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Director of the OCD and Anxiety Disorders Clinic. He is an internationally recognized leader in the treatment of OCD and anxiety disorders and has published over 300 books and scientific articles in these areas. He is a Past President of the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT) and the founding Editor of the Journal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders (JOCRD).

Resources and links:

Conversion - Documentary

https://www.amazon.com/Conversion-Zachary-Quinto/dp/B09RW4XW2C

Social Media Information:

Twitter: @drjonabram