psychological disorder
Noun: A psychological disorder is a clinically significant disturbance in an individual's cognition, emotional regulation, or behavior. It reflects a dysfunction in the psychological, biological, or developmental processes underlying mental functioning. The term is often used as a more neutral, descriptive alternative to "mental illness," focusing on patterns of thought, emotion, or behavior that cause distress or impairment in important areas of functioning.
The term is used in clinical, academic, and legal contexts to describe a recognized syndrome or condition. It is typically modified by a specific type (e.g., anxiety disorder, mood disorder). - The diagnosis was a psychological disorder characterized by persistent sadness and loss of interest. - Researchers are studying the genetic factors associated with this psychological disorder.
- In a clinical context: The term is used to denote a condition meeting specific diagnostic criteria, as found in manuals like the DSM-5 or ICD-11.
- The therapist specializes in treating psychological disorders related to childhood development.
- In a legal/forensic context: Used to assess competency or criminal responsibility.
- The court ordered an evaluation to determine if a psychological disorder affected the defendant's judgment.
- Mental disorder: A largely synonymous term, though "psychological disorder" may be perceived as slightly broader, encompassing disturbances in thought and emotion.
- Psychiatric disorder: Emphasizes the medical and treatment-oriented aspects, often used interchangeably in clinical settings.
- Mental illness: A common term that can carry more stigma; "psychological disorder" is often preferred for its descriptive neutrality.
- Syndrome: A set of concurrent symptoms which may constitute a psychological disorder.
- Mental disorder
- Psychiatric disorder
- Mental health condition
- Mental health
- Psychological well-being
- Diagnosable psychological disorder: Specifies a condition that meets formal diagnostic criteria.
- Not all stress responses rise to the level of a diagnosable psychological disorder.
- Treatment of psychological disorders: Refers to therapeutic interventions.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy is effective for the treatment of several psychological disorders.
- (psychiatry) a psychological disorder of thought or emotion; a more neutral term than mental illness