*** Day 1 ***:

Diagnosis of the day (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):  This is one
of their clearer diagnoses (but still can be used against people in a
biased way):

Paranoid Personality Disorder:

I. Pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others beginning in early
   childhood and showing at least 4 of the following:

   -- suspects exploiting or deceiving is going on

   -- preoccupied with doubts about loyalties or trustworthiness or others

   -- reluctant to confide because thinks info. will be used against him/her

   -- finds hidden meanings or threatening messages

   -- holds grudges unreasonably

   -- frequently perceives attacks on his/her reputation and quick to anger

   -- often supicious of spouse or partner (unreasonably)

   ** Exclude this diagnosis if certain other major diagnoses are present. **

THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW ABOUT 3% OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.  STAY TUNED
FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 2 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Schizoid Personality Disorder:

I. Pervasive pattern of detachment from/in social relations and a restricted
   range of emotional expression beginning in early
   childhood and showing at least 4 of the following:

   -- does not enjoy family & neither desires nor enjoys close relationships

   -- commonly chooses solitary activities

   -- little interest in sexuality

   -- takes pleasure in few activities

   -- lack of close friends, other than relatives

   -- indifferent to praise or criticism

   -- emotional coldness or detachment

   ** Exclude this diagnosis if symptoms during times of
     other major diagnoses or if due to medical condition. **

THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% MORE OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 and Day 2: 6% .
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 3 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Schizotypal Personality Disorder:

I. Pervasive pattern of social and interpersonal deficits, characterized
   by strong discomfort with close relationships and a reduced ability
   to have personal relationships as well as cognitive or perceptual
   distortions and eccentricities beginning by early adulthood.  These
   signs must be present in a variety of contexts and be indicated by
   at least 5 of the following:


   -- ideas (not delusions) of reference -- i.e. of being referred to

   -- odd beliefs (or magical thinking) that influence his/her behavior
      and are not consistent with the subculture in which he/she lives

   -- unusual perceptual or bodily experiences (illusions)

   -- odd thinking or speech (may be vague or stereotyped or overelaborate)

   -- suspiciousness or paranoid ideas

   -- inappropriate or blunted emotionality

   -- behavior or appearance that is odd

   -- lacks close friend, other than immediate relatives

   -- Social anxiety that does not lessen with familiarity (worry tends to
      be assoc. with paranoid fears rather than worry about negative
      evaluation)

   ** Exclude this diagnosis if symptoms during certain times of
     other major diagnoses -- in particular a psychotic type disorder
     (a psychotic disorder is one that involves delusions -- see your
       dictionary.  Psychotic disorders include schizophrenia and
       major mood disorders.) **

THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% MORE OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 and Day 2  and Day 3: 9% .
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 4 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Borderline Personality Disorder:

I. Pervasive pattern of instability of emotions, interpersonal relations,
   self-image, and characterized by impulsivity and beginning by early adulthood.
   These signs must be present in a variety of contexts and be indicated by
   at least 5 of the following:


   -- frantic efforts to avoid abandonment, real or imagined

   -- pattern of unstable YET intense interpersonal relations, characterized
      by alternating between idealization and devaluation of the relations

   -- identity disturbance shown by persistent disturbed or distorted or
      unstable self image ( or disturbed or distorted or unstable w/r to self
      perception OR feelings about self)

   -- engaging in impulsive potentially self damaging in at least 2 areas
      (for example: substance abues, sex, eating, etc.)

   -- recurrent suicidal behavior or gestures or threats OR self-mulilating
      behavior (DO NOT count anything here twice by counting it again in
      any of the criteria above)

   -- emotional (affective) instability due to reactivity of mood
      (including possibly intense episodic moodiness, irritability
        or anxiety tpyically lasting a few
        hours, though not more than a few days)

   -- chronic feelings of emptiness

   -- inappropriate intense anger or lack or control of anger

   -- transient (temporary, passing) stress-related paranoid ideation (ideas)
      or severe feelings of not being oneself



THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 4: ** 12% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 5 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Antisocial Personality Disorder:

I. This personality disorder is diagnosed based on present behaviors *and*
   a person to be diagnosed with this must have shown evidence of Conduct
   Disorder before age 15.  BUT ALSO, this diagnosis may not be made of
   anyone younger that 18 yr. old.
   In childhood, a person being give this diagnosis must have shown (in
   essense) at least 3 of the following:


   -- tendency to bully or threaten others

   -- often in physical fights, initiating them

   -- stolen in a situation (like mugging) where he confronted the victim

   -- used a serious weapon in a fight

   -- showed physical cruelty to others in some other ways

   -- showed physical cruelty to animals

   -- often lied or broke promises to obtain goods/favors or avoid
      responsibilities

   -- had forced someone into sexual activity

   -- stayed out at night when < 13 y.o. despite parental prohibitions

   -- stolen anything major (of significant value)

   -- deliberately engaged in causing serious damage

   -- ran away overnight from home at least twice or once for a long time

   -- broken into a building or home or car

   -- often truant from school, beginning before 13 y.o.

   -- deliberate fire setting

II.  Then, since age 15, has shown a pervasive pattern of violating the
     rights of others, as shown by at least 3 of the following:

   -- has shown a failure to conform to social norms
      (in particular, as shown by being arrested several times or committing
       acts that are grounds for arrest several times).

   -- repeated physical fights or assaults

   -- impulsivity and failure (apparent inability) to plan ahead

   -- consistent irresponsibility, as shown by failing work or finacial
      obligations

   -- deceitfulness, shown by frequent lying, use of aliases, or conning
      others for profit or pleasure

   -- reckless disregard for the safety of other or self

   -- lack of remorse for (or rationalization of) significant wrongdoing

** Exclude this diagnosis if behaviors occurred exclusively during
   manic episode or during the course of schizophrenia. ****



THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 5: ** 15% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 6 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Narcissistic Personality Disorder:

I. A pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, lack of empathy,
   beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts.
   A person being give this diagnosis must have shown at least 5 of the
   following:


   -- exaggerated sense of self-importance

   -- preoccupation with fantasies of brilliance, unlimited success, ideal
      love, etc.

   -- believes he/she if unique and special and can only be understood by
      certain other special people

   -- requires excessive admiration

   -- sense of entitlement, in other words, an unreasonable expecation of
      favorable treatment or compliance with his/her expectations

   -- lack of emphathy for others and not willing to recognize others'
      needs and feelings

   -- takes advantage of others to achieve his/her own personal goals

   -- envious of others or believes others are envious of him/her

   -- arrogant attitudes or behaviors



THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 6: ** 18% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 7 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Histrionic Personality Disorder:

I. A pervasive pattern of attention seeking and excessive emotionality,
   beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts.
   A person being give this diagnosis must have shown at least 5 of the
   following:


   -- often shows inappropriate sexuallly seductive behavior in interactions
      with others

   -- uncomfortable unless he/she is the center of attention

   -- shows shifting and shallow emotions

   -- characteristicly uses physical appearance to draw attention to his/
      herself

   -- self-dramatizing and exaggerated expression of emotion

   -- style of speech lacking in detail and excessively impressionistic

   -- suggestible (easily influenced by others or circumstances)

   -- considers relationships to be more close or intimate than the are



THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 7: ** 21% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 8 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder:

I. A pervasive preoccupation with orderliness, perfection, and mental and
   interpersonal control and it occurs at the expense of openness,
   flexibility and efficiency.  This show itself
   beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts.
   A person being give this diagnosis must have shown at least 4 of the
   following:


   -- preoccupation with details, rules, order, organization, or lists
      and schedules to the extent the the major focus of activity is lost

   -- perfectionism that interferes with the completion of the real task
      (perhaps an inability to complete a project because certain standards
       are not met -- this is one possible example)

   -- overconscientiousness and inflexibility about values or morals
      (and not in line with the individual's culture or religion)

   -- excessive devotion to a job to the exclusion of friendships and
      leisure activities (and not due to economic necessity)

   -- inability to discard junk and worn out items, even when they have
      no sentimental value

   -- is willing to delegate tasks only if others conform exactly to
      his/her way of doing things

   -- rigid and stubborn

   -- miserly toward self and others; saves cash for future unforseen
      disasters



THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 8: ** 24% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 9 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Avoidant Personality Disorder:

I. A pervasive pattern of social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy and
   hypersensitivity to negative evaluation.  This show itself
   beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts.
   This is basically debilitating shyness, that significantly inteferes
   with normal life.
   A person being give this diagnosis must have shown at least 4 of the
   following:


   -- unwilling to get involved with people unless he/she is certain he
      will be liked

   -- avoids job activities that involve notable interpersonal contact,
      because of fear of criticism/rejection/disapproval.

   -- restraint in close relationships because of fear of ridicule or
      shame

   -- preoccupation in social situations with being rejected or criticized

   -- inhibited in new interpersonal situations because of feelings of
      inadequacy

   -- belief that he/she is personally unappealing or inferior to others or
      that he/she is socially inept

   -- unusually reluctant to take any personal risks or engage in new
      activities because of fear of embarrassment



THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 9: ** 27% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 10 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Dependent Personality Disorder:

I. A pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of.  This leads
   to clinging and submissive behavior and fears of separation.
   This shows itself beginning by early adulthood and is present in a
   variety of contexts.
   A person being give this diagnosis must have shown at least 5 of the
   following:


   -- unable to make normal everyday decisions without a lot of advice and
      reassurance

   -- needs others to assume responsibility for most significant areas
      of life

   -- difficulty in expressing disagreement because of unrealistic
      fear of loss of support or approval

   -- goes to excessive lengths to obtain support -- to the point of
      volunteering to do things that are unpleasant

   -- difficulty starting or doing projects on his/her own (due to a lack
      of self-confidence rather than a lack of motivation)

   -- feels uncomfortable or helpless when alone -- exaggerated fear of
      being unable to take care of his/ herself.

   -- urgently seeks another relationship when a close relationship ends

   -- unrealistic preoccupation with fear of being left to care for her/
      hisself


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 10: ** 30% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 11 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Acute Stress Disorder, REQUIRES ALL OF THE FOLLOWING:

I. The person has been exposed to a traumatic event (one in which he/she
   experienced or witnessed an event(s) which involved actual or threatened
   death or serious injury to self or another)


II. The response to the event involved intense fear or helplessness


III.  Either during the traumatic experience, or immediately after, the
      individual has at least 3 of the following dissociative symptoms:

   -- sense of numbing, detachment, or absense of emotional responsiveness

   -- derealization

   -- depersonalization

   -- abnormal reduction in awareness of his/her surroundings

   -- inability to recall an important aspect of the trauma


IV. Event is reexperienced persistently in one or more of the following ways:

    recurrent thoughts, dreams, illusions, images, flashback episodes,
    or a sence of reliving the experience or distress upon exposure to
    reminders

V.  Notable avoidance of stimuli that are reminders of the trauma -- can
    be thoughts, feelings, people, places or activities

VI. Notable symptoms of anxiety or increased arousal (examples: irritability,
    difficulty sleeping, poor concentration, hypervilgilance, exaggerated
    startle, restlessness)

VII. The above disturbances cause significant distress or interfere with
     some important normal area of functioning  OR  the individual is
     prevented from pursuing some important necessary task

VIII. Symptoms occur within 4 weeks of the traumatic event and
      last a minimum of 2 days and a maximum of 4 weeks (otherwise other
      diagnoses may be appropriate)

** Exclude this diagnosis if symptoms are directly due to a drug or substance
   or medical condition or if they are better accounted for by a psychotic
   condition and are not merely an exacerbation of a preexisting mental
   disorder (including personality disorders). **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 11: ** 33% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 12 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Agoraphobia  (Requires I and II)

I. Major anxiety about being in situations or places from which escape
   would be difficult or embarrassing, or in which help might not be
   available in the event of an unexpected or situationally-related panic
   attack or panic-like symptoms.  (Note: agoraphobia may be diagnosed with
   without a history of panic disorder -- an upcoming Diagnosis of the Day.)
   The situations causing fear are typically those that would involve
   being in crowds or socially-exposed or otherwise "exposed" or hemmed in
   (for example, in tunnels, on buses, on bridges, or in lines, or simply
   being away from home).  You should consider the diagnosis of a specific phobia
   (another upcoming Diagnosis of the Day) if the irrational fears and avoidance
   are limited to rather few specific type situations -- and in that case not use
   this diagnosis.

II. The situations ARE avoided or endured with marked distress or with anxiety
    about having a panic attack or panic-like symptoms OR require the presence
    of a companion.


** Exclude this diagnosis if the symptoms are better accounted for by another
   disorder, which more specificly fits with the symptoms **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 12: ** 36% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 13 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (sources, the DSM-IV and the DSM-3-R).  This is a tougher
one, and you almost have to be smart to understand it:

Bipolar Disorders (types I and II) (also covered here: Cyclothymic Disorder)

In DSM-III-R, the Bipolar disorders used to be classified as:

  (a) bipolar disorder, mixed
  (b) bipolar disorder, manic
  (c) bipolar disorder, depressed

(there was also cyclothymia)

In DSM-IV (the new edition of the Diagnostic Manual of the Amer. Psychiatric Assoc.),
there are 2 "major" classes of Bipolar Disorder:

  Bipolar I: including basically (a) and (b) above, but broken down in
    six subtypes.  They 6 subtypes of Bipolar I are: Single Manic Episode, and
    Most Recent Episode Hypomanic, Manic, Mixed (see below), Depressed,
    or Unspecified.    THEN "modifiers" (descriptors added on to the basic diagnosis)
    have to do with the pattern of the disorder: EXAMPLES: recurrent, rapid cycling
    (4 or more + or - mood episodes in a year <-- that's rapid).
   Most bipolar I disorders are recurrent.  The mixed subtype is one where
   depressive symptoms are intermixed with mania (or rapidly alternate with mania --
   every few days)

  Outside of understanding the nature of the common Major Depressive Episode
  in the history of the patient (usual __but not required__ in the patient's history
  for the diagnosis, AND which will be covered when Major Depression is
  covered in a later Day), the core thing to understand is a Manic Episode.
  Thus this will be described in detail below.  Manic Episodes typically preceed or
  follow Depressive Episodes (though, again, this is not required).

AND SECOND, in the DSM-IV, there is

  Bipolar II:  basically like a bipolar I disorder that has been accompanied by
     a hypomanic episode, rather than a manic episode(s).  Thus the
     definition of a hypomanic episode will be covered in detail below.

(the DSM-III-R depressed type is basically abandoned)

Review:
The essential feature of the Bipolar I disorders is one or more Manic
Episodes (which, as I said, will be covered in detail below).  Again, this is
USUALLY accompanied by one or more Major Depressive Episodes (the essense of
Major Depression -- a diagnosis to be covered another day).  The essential feature
of Bipolar II is a hypomanic episode rather than a manic episode.

OK. Now, general definitions of the key MANIA or HYPOMANIA and then other required
    features to diagnose EITHER mania OR hypomania.


MANIA: A distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated ("expansive")
       OR irritable mood -- lasting at least a week, but of any duration IF
       hospitalization is required.  The mood disturbance is severe enough to
       cause impairment in social or occupational functioning OR severe enough to
       require hospitalization to keep the person from causing harm to himself or
       others.  (Recall: More is involved in the diagnose of mania --
       in particular the common features of mania/hypomania, described below.)

HYPOMANIA:  A distinct period of persistent elevated ("expansive")
            OR irritable mood, lasting 4 days and that is different from the
            usual nondepressed mood.  Individual shows a change in functioning that
            is uncharacteristic and observable to others.  (More is involved in the
            diagnose of hypomania --  in particular the common features of
            mania/hypomania, described below.)

OTHER THINGS REQUIRED TO DIAGNOSE EITHER TYPE OF EPISODE:

   During the period of mood disturbance, at least 3 of the following (or 4 if the
   person presents as irritable) must be present:

   -- inflated self-esteem or what is know as grandiosity

   -- decreased need for sleep (for example, feels rested after just a few hours)

   -- more talkative than usual or there seems to be a pressure for him/her to
      keep talking

   -- flight of ideas or subjective experiences -- thoughts are racing

   -- distractability, where attention is easily drawn to irrelevant things

   -- increase in goal-directed activity or psychomotor agitation (physical
      restlessness)

   -- excessive involvement in risky pleasurable activities



** Exclude this diagnosis if the person has had delusions or hallucinations for
at least 2 weeks in the absense of a mood disturbance -- in such cases a diagnosis
of schizophrenia, delusional disorder, or another psychotic disorder may be well
be applied. **

FINALLY, another bipolar type disorder must be covered under the category of
BIPOLAR DISORDERS.  This is Cyclothymic Disorder:  This seems to be a more
serious disorder than Bipolor (to me, your present author).

CYCLOTHYMIC DISORDER:  A chronic fluctuating mood disturbance of at least 2 years
duration (or one for children) involving numerous hypomanic episodes AND numerous
periods of depressed mood (insufficient to meet the criteria for Major Depressive
or Manic Episodes).  There must be a 2 year (1 yr. in children) period where the
person is never without hypomanic or depressive symtoms for more than 2 months.


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 13: ** 39% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 14 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Body Dismorphic Disorder (as usual, REQUIRES I and II)

I. Preoccupation with an imagined defect in appearance, OR if a slight physical
   defect is present, the person's concern is clearly excessive

II. The preoccupation causes significant distress or marked impairment in social,
    occupational, or other major life functioning.

** Exclude this diagnosis if the symptoms are better accounted for by another
   disorder, which more specificly fits with the symptoms -- possibly, sometimes,
   anorexia nervosa **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 14: ** 42% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 15 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Dysthymic Disorder (as usual, REQUIRES all the things below)

I. FOR 2 or more years: Depressed mood for most of the day and
   for more days than not

II. [NOTE that the following reference to being depressed does not refer to major
    depressive episode(s), otherwise the diagnosis would be serious major
    depression.] Presense, while depressed, of at least 2 of the following:

    -- feeling tired

    -- difficulty sleeping or oversleeping

    -- notable change in appetite (+ or -)

    -- low self-esteem

    -- trouble concentrating or making decisions

    -- feeling hopeless or pessimistic about the future

III.  During the 2 years of the disturbance, never without the symptoms in I (above)
      for more than 2 months at a time.

IV.  The symptoms cause significant personal distress or impairment in social
     occupational, or other major functioning.

** Exclude this diagnosis if Major Depression (an upcoming Disorder of the Day)
   was present during the first 2 years of the dysthymia; exclude the diagnosis
   if there is evidence there was a manic or hypomanic episode; exclude the
   diagnosis if it occurs with delusional disorder, schizophrenia, or other
   chronic psychotic disorder; exclude this disorder if the symtoms are associated
   with a drug or substance.  Obviously in these cases other diagnoses may
   well be given. **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 15: ** 45% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 16 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (as usual, REQUIRES all the things below)

I. excessive worry or anxiety about a number of activities or events,
   occurring more days than not for at least 6 months

II. The person finds it difficult to control his/her worrying

III. The worry and anxiety are associated with at least 3 of the following
     (and at least some of these symptoms have been present more days than
      not for at for the last 6 months):

    -- gets tired very easily

    -- feels irritable

    -- feels tense or has aches in muscles

    -- has problems concentrating or with his/her mind "going blank"

    -- feels restless, fidgety, on edge, or has difficulty sitting still

    -- has had problems getting to sleep or staying asleep


IV.  The symptoms cause significant personal distress or impairment in social
     occupational, or other major functioning.

** Exclude this diagnosis if anxiety is related to having another
   major disorder ("Axis I disorder", i.e. not a personality disorder).
   Also exclude this disorder if the symptoms are due to the effects
   of a drug or substance OR due to a general medical condition OR
   if symtoms are present only during the course of a major mood disorder,
   psychotic disorder, or a pervasive developmental disorder. **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 16: ** 48% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 17 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Hypochondriasis (as usual, REQUIRES all the things below)

I. preoccupation with fears of getting/having a disease.  The person
   believes he/she may have the disease (or may be getting it) based
   on the misinterpretation of bodily symptoms/signs

II. preoccupation continues in spite of an appropriate medical evaluation
    that indicates the contrary

III.  The symptoms cause significant personal distress or impairment in social
      occupational, or other major functioning.

IV. The duration of this disturbance is at least 6 months.



** Exclude this diagnosis if the preoccupation(s) occurs only during the
   course of Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder,
   Panic Disorder, Separation Anxiety, or a Major Depressive Episode, OR
   if the symptoms are present only along with another somatoform disorder
   -- another disorder involving bodily symptoms or concerns.   Also, exclude if
   the symptoms, i.e. the beliefs (about bodily signs/symptoms), are delusional
   (since another diagnosis may well be appropriate);
   and if patient has circumscribed concerns about appearance, diagnose
   instead body dysmorphic disorder, if the symptoms fit with that. **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 17: ** 51% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 18 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Intermittent Explosive Disorder (as usual, REQUIRES all the things below)

I. Several distinct episodes of loss of control of aggressive impulses,
   which result in serious assaults or destruction of property

II. The degree of aggressiveness shown during these episodes is greatly
    out of proportion to the precipitating psychosocial stressors



** Exclude this diagnosis if the phenomena of loss of control are better
   explained by borderline or antisocial personality disorder OR a
   psychotic disorder, a manic episode, conduct disorder (in children), or
   hyperactivity in attention deficit disorder.  Also exclude this diagnosis
   if symptoms are due to the effects of drugs or substances or due to
   a general medical condition. **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 18: ** 54% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 19 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder requires

I.  recurrent obsessions or compulsions
    sufficently severe to cause marked distress or to interfere with a
    major aspect of life functioning.  Since the key is OBSESSIONS OR
    COMPULSIONS, these terms are defined in detail below. (Of course
    a person with this disorder may have both obsessions and compulsions.)

OBSESSIONS (all 4 of the below are required for something to be considered
            an obsession):

    -- recurrent and persistent thoughts, impulses, or images that are
       experienced at some time during the disturbance as intrusive and
       inappropriate (unrealistic).  And, they cause notable anxiety and
       distress.

    -- person attempts to ignore or suppress the thoughts, images, or impulses
       or attempts to "neutralize" them in some way -- perhaps with certain
       actions or other thoughts

    -- The thoughts, impulses or images are not just excessive worries about
       real problems

    -- person recognizes the obsessional thought, impulses, or images are
       a product of his/her own mind (thus the person is NOT delusional and
       does view them as coming from "outside" -- otherwise, no doubt, some
       other diagnosis would be appropriate).

COMPULSIONS (both of two things below are required for something to be considered
            a compulsion):

    -- repetitive behaviors (like repeatedly checking things, or ordering
       things, or handwashing, or counting, or praying or repeating words)
       that a person feels driven to do in response to an obsession or
       according to rules that must be rigidly applied

    -- these behaviors or mental activities are aimed at preventing or reducing
       distress or preventing some bad situation or event, though none of this
       is realistic (and the patient basically knows this); such behaviors
       or mental activities are clearly excessive.


Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder ALSO requires

II. At some point during the course of the disturbance, the person recognizes
    that the obsessions and/or compulsions are unreasonable (otherwise, no
    doubt, some other diagnosis would be appropriate).

II.  The symptoms cause significant personal distress or impairment in social
     occupational, or other major functioning (including if the obsessions
     and/or compulsions are very time consuming, and take more than an hour
     a day).



** Exclude this diagnosis if another "Axis I" (non-personality disorder) is
   present; exclude the diagnosis if the obsessions or compulsions are
   restricted to preoccupation with food in the presense of an eating disorder;
   exclude the diagnosis if the obsessions have to do with appearance,
   in body dysmorphic disorder; exclude if the preoccupations have to do
   only with illness in the presense of hypochondriasis; also exclude if
   the person shows simply trichotillomania (recurrent hair pulling, resulting
   in hair loss <-- this is another disorder, though I will not note it again).
   Also exclude the diagnosis if the symptoms are due to a drug or substance
   or to a general medical condition. **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 19: ** 57% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 20 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Major Depression (REQUIRES I and II below)

I. First, to diagnose Major Depression, you must find at least 5 of the
   symptoms below AND one of the symptoms found must be the first or
   second symptom listed below.  For each symptom you must ask about
   duration of the symptom (how long person has had it) and about how
   persistent the symptom is (i.e. does he/she feel like that nearly
   every day).  ALSO, the symptoms from the list below (to be counted)
   MUST have been present during the same 2 week period and represent a
   change from normal functioning.

    -- depressed mood most of the day nearly every day as indicated
       by the individual's own subjective report or by the observations
       of others.

    -- markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all, or almost all,
       activities (most of the day, nearly everyday)

    -- insomnia or sleeping too much, nearly every day

    -- significant weight loss or gain (5%) when not dieting, or decrease
       or increase in appetite

    -- physical ("psychomotor") agitation or a physical slowing down
       nearly everyday AS OBSERVABLE BY OTHERS (and not just subjective)

    -- loss of energy or fatique nearly everyday

    -- diminished ability to concentrate or think OR indecisiveness, nearly
       every day

    -- feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt, nearly
       every day (and, this is not just guilt over other symptoms)

    -- reoccurring thoughts of death, recurrent ideas of suicide without
       a plan, OR suicide plan OR suicide attempt

II. The symptoms cause significant personal distress or impairment in social
     occupational, or other major functioning.

I and II together consititue a Major Depressive Episode (if you ever hear that
term) and that is exactly what is required for a diagnosis of Major Depression.


** Exclude this diagnosis if depression occurs within 2 months of the
   loss of a loved one (EXCEPT if associated with significant functional
   impairment, morbid preoccupation with worthlessness, suicidal ideation,
   psychomotor retardation, OR psychotic symptoms (YES, Major Depression can be
   associated with delusions -- a "psychotic" symptom)).
   BUT, also exclude this diagnosis if during the course of the illness
   the patient had delusions or hallucinations for at least 2 weeks in
   the absence of a prominent mood disturbance (in such cases, the diagnosis
   should be: schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, delusional disorder,
   schizophreniform disorder, or psychotic disorder NOT OTHERSWISE SPECIFIED --
   these Disorders to be covered in the following days).  Finally, exclude
   this disorder if symptoms are due to the effects of drugs or substances
   or due to a general medical condition. **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 20: ** 60% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 21 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Panic Disorder (I and II required)

I. First, involved in this diagnosis is PANIC ATTACKS, thus defining what
   constitutes this key set of symptoms is central.  A panic attack refers to a
   distinct period of intense fear or discomfort in which at least 4 of the
   following symptoms developed abruptly and reached a peak within 10 min.:

    -- sense that one is sweating abnormally

    -- feel that one's heart is racing, pounding, skipping beats, or seeming to
       beat irregularly

    -- trouble catching one's breath

    -- feeling as if you are choking

    -- trembling or shaking

    -- feelings of having chest pain, pressure, tightness, or discomfort

    -- feeling nauseated, sick to one's stomach, or as if one might have diarrhea

    -- feeling like things around one are unreal, like parts of one's body are
       unreal or detached, or feeling like one is outside watching oneself

    -- feeling like you are going crazy or might lose control


    -- fear you might die


    -- feeling numb in fingers or feet


    -- experience of having hot flashes or chills


    -- feeling dizzy, unsteady, light-headed, or like you might faint



II. Second, such panic attacks must occur in a recurrent, unexpected manner and
    there must have been at least one panic attack that has been followed by
    ONE of the following:

    -- a persistent concern about have such attacks


    -- a significant change in behavior, related to having had (or fear of
       having) such attacks


    -- significant worry about what such attacks mean (examples: that they
       might relate to heart problems, losing control, going crazy)


** Exclude this diagnosis if the anxiety is better accounted for by another
   mental disorder (where possibilities include: specific phobia, social phobia,
   post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulisive disorder, or
   separation anxiety disorder <-- one of these disorders has already been covered;
   the others will be covered in upcoming "Disorders of the Day"). Also exclude
   this disorder if symptoms are due to the effects of drugs or substances
   or due to a general medical condition. **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 21: ** 63% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 22 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (I, II, III, IV, V, VI, and VII required)

I. The person has been exposed to a situation in which he/she experienced,
   witnessed, or was confronted with an event(s) that involved actual or
   threatened serious injury or death of self or other(s).

II. The person's response to the event involved intense fear, horror, or
    helplessness.

III. The traumatic event is persistently reexperienced in at least ONE of
     the following ways:

    -- feeling or acting as if the event were reoccurring (examples:
       sense of reliving the experience, dissociative flashback episodes,
       illusions or hallucinations)

    -- recurring intrusive recollections of the event (thoughts, images,
       or perceptions)

    -- recurring distressing dreams

    -- intense physiological distress at exposure to cues or reminders
       of things that symbolize or resemble an aspect of the traumatic
       event(s)


    -- physical reactivity at exposure to cues or reminders
       of things that symbolize or resemble an aspect of the traumatic
       event(s)

IV. Persistent avoidance of things associated with the trauma and a
    numbing of general responsiveness, as indicated by at least 3 of
    the following:

    -- effort to avoid activities, people, or places that remind him/her
       of the trauma

    -- effort to avoid thought and feelings, or talk of things associated
       with the trauma

    -- inability to recall a major aspect of the traumatic experience(s)

    -- feeling of detachment or estrangement from others

    -- significantly reduced interest or participation in significant
       activities

    -- restricted (constricted) emotions ("affect")

    -- sense that life/career/marriage will be short (or any other
       sense of likelihood of the foreshortening of major part of life)

V.  Persistent symptoms of increased abnormal arousal as indicated by
    at least 2 of the following:

    -- irritability or outbursts of anger

    -- difficulty concentrating

    -- difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep

    -- hypervigilence (always alert, "looking around", hyperaware)

    -- exaggerated startle response

VI.  Duration of symptoms (in III, IV, and V above) is more than 1 month.

VII. The symptoms cause significant personal distress or impairment in social
     occupational, or other major functioning.

** If symptoms appear occur within 4 weeks of the trauma and last less than
   4 weeks, the diagnosis should be Acute Stress Disorder, instead of
   Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 22: ** 66% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 23 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

This will be a unique day, because I will cover Schizophrenia and 2 SIMILAR
Psychotic Disorders: Schizophreniform Disorder and Schizoaffective Disorder
(the definitions are all very similar, so it will be clear why I am doing
 this).

Schizophrenia (as usual, requires I, II, and III below)

I. Two or more of the following, each present for a significant portion
   of a one month period (can be less, if symptoms are caught early and
   successfully treated):

    --  delusions (markly irrational beliefs -- I will give examples below)

    --  hallucinations

    --  disorganized speech (derailment or incoherent)

    --  grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior (showing strange, limited
        motion)

    --  "negative" symptoms (i.e. missing behaviors; example: markedly flattened
        affect (emotion))

   BUT NOTE:  Only one of the above criteria is necessary IF the delusions
   are bizarre OR if the hallucinations involve voices doing a running
   commentary on what the person is doing or involve 2 or more voices that
   are heard conversing with one another.

II. For a significant portion of the time after the onset of the disturbance,
    performance is markly below levels characteristic before the onset of the
    disturbance (or if the symptoms are early onset -- in adolescence or before,
    the reasonably expected levels of performance in areas of major life
    functioning are not achieved).

III. Continuous disturbance for at least six months. There may be periods of time
     where only the "negative" symptoms are present, but (of course) criteria I & II
     must be met.  *******  IF ALL THE SYMPTOMS ARE TRUE, EXCEPT THIS LAST ONE *******,
     THE DIAGNOSIS IS SCHIZOPHRENIFORM DISORDER; STILL, for this
     schizophreniform diagnosis all the OTHER symptoms required for a diagnosis of
     schizophrenia must have been present for at least 1 month <-- and
     that is all I need to say about this disorder, since THAT defines it.)


SCHIZOAFFECTIVE DISORDER:  In "regular" schizophrenia (as just defined), the mood
disturbances (depression/mania) are "BRIEF" compared to the classic schizophrenic
symptoms.  The DSM-IV does not define "brief", but some authorities define "brief"
as less than 20% of the time.  IF THE MOOD DISTURBANCE SYMPTOMS ARE PRESENT MORE
THAN THIS, THE DIAGNOSIS IS SCHIZOAFFECTIVE DISORDER, RATHER THAN SCHIZOPHRENIA
(and THAT defines this disorder).
But also note that if the individual has had delusions or hallucinations for 2 weeks
or more when mood symptoms where not present, the diagnosis should be schizophrenia
(or schizophreniform disorder) and not schizoaffective disorder.

[Note: there are 2 psychotic disorders I shall not cover in this 30 day presentation.
 One is Delusional Disorder (which used to be called Paranoid Disorder) <-- this is
 very much like an extreme case of paranoid personality disorder, thus if you see
 such a thing look up "Delusional Disorder".  The other psychotic disorder I will not
 cover is Brief Psychotic Episode Disorder.  The other disorders which have been
 covered which may show delusional (psychotic) features are:  Bipolar Disorder and
 Major Depression.]

FOOTNOTE: Examples of DELUSIONS:

   -- delusions of reference: believing the TV or radio or people on the street, etc.
      are talking about you

   -- delusions of persecution: believing very irrationally that some person or
      persons are "out to get you"

   -- delusions of grandiosity:  beliefs that you are some great person (perhaps
      even a great historical figure, such as Jesus)

   -- other common delusions are delusions about thoughts: believing you can read
      others' minds or they can read yours or that they can broadcast their thoughts
      (magically) to you; believing others can insert content into your thoughts
      or remove content from one's thoughts are other thought delusions that may be seen

   -- similar to the one directly above, a person with DELUSIONS may believe
      irrationally that others control them; or they may have very irrational guilt;
      or they may have very irrational beliefs about things wrong with their body or
      "sicknesses" they have.

THESE ARE JUST SOME COMMON EXAMPLES; THERE ARE OTHER POSSIBILITIES.

I ASSUME PEOPLE KNOW WHAT SORT OF SERIOUS ABNORMALITY HAVING *HALLUCINATIONS* IS.
A very common example, hearing voices, has been noted above.  There may also be
visual or tactile (touch) hallucinations or taste or smell hallucinations.

There are a certain number of defined subtypes of schizophrenia (all merely descriptive)
and they are applied as they fit the prominent features of any given particular case.


** Exclude the diagnoses above, if the symptoms are do to a drug or substance or
   to a general medical condition. **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 23: ** 69% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 24 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Social Phobia (I, II, III, IV, and V required)

I. a marked and persistent fear of one or more social or performance
   situations, where an individual is exposed to unfamiliar people or
   to the scrutiny of others (individual fears he/she will look nervous
   or act in some other way that is embarrassing)


II. the person recognizes that the fear is excessive or unreasonable


III. Exposure to the feared social situation(s) almost always causes anxiety,
     which MAY take the form of a situationally based panic attack


IV. The social or performance situations are avoided, or endured with
    intense anxiety or distress

V.  The avoidance of, anxious anticipation of, or distress in the feared
    situation interferes significantly with the person's social or
    occupational or normal life functioning OR there is marked distress
    about having the symptoms.



** Exclude this diagnosis if the fear is do to a physical disorder, the
   effects of a drug or substance, or if it is caused by a general medical
   condition.  Also exclude this disorder if symptoms are related to another
   mental disorder or if the fearful symptoms are better accounted for by
   diagnosing panic attack, specific phobia, separation anxiety disorder,
   body dysmorphic disorder, schizoid personality disorder, or pervasive
   developmental disorder. **


THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 24: ** 72% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 25 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Somatization Disorder (I, II, III, IV, V, and VI required)

I. history of many physical complaints, beginning before age 30 and occurring
   over a period of several years and resulting in medical treatment being
   sought OR significant impairment in social, occupational or another
   major area of life functioning


II. the symptom(s) are not fully  explained by a known general medical
    condition or the effect of a drug or substance OR the complaints or
    impairment are in excess of what would be expected from the medical
    findings


III. During the course of the disorder (i.e. during the time period the
     individual has shown symptoms), 4 pain symptoms in different
     parts of the body:

    -- belly pain

    -- chest pain

    -- pain in arms or legs

    -- back pain

    -- pain during sex

    -- pain when he/she urinates

    -- pain in joints

    -- excessive pain during menstrual periods

    -- pain anywhere else, other than headache


IV. During the course of the disorder, 2 gastrointestinal symptoms (other
    than pain):

    -- vomiting

    -- nausea (do not count motion sickness)

    -- diarrhea

    -- excess gas

    -- foods he/she cannot eat because he/she thinks they make him/her sick

V.  During the course of the disorder:
     One sexual symptom other than pain (including not caring about sex;
     and, including abnormal menstrual or pregnancy sickness problems in
     women)

VI. During the course of the disorder:
    One pseudoneurologic symptom (unreal brain symptom).  Examples: amnesia,
    losing of voice, feel like fainting, losing sight for a time or blurred
    vision, seisure or convulsion, trouble walking, numbness, problems with
    balance or coordination, muscle weakness, difficulty urinating, double
    vision, temporary deafness, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing




THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 25: ** 75% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 26 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

Specific Phobia (Simple Phobia) (I, II, III, IV, and V required)

I. marked and persistent fear that is excessive and unreasonable, triggered
   off by the presense of, or anticipation of, a specific object or situation
   (examples:  heights, particular animals, blood, bugs, water ..., but
    do not include fears related to agoraphobia or social phobia)


II. exposure to phobic thing or situation almost invariably produces an
    immediate anxiety response which MAY take the form of a situationally-
    related panic attack


III.  phobic thing or situation is avoided or else endured with intense
      anxiety or distress


IV. the avoidance, anxious anticipation, or distress about the situation
    or thing significantly interferes with the person's occupational or
    social functioning or another main area of life functioning OR
    there is marked distress about having the phobia


V.  the person recognizes that the fear is excessive or unreasonable


** Exclude this diagnosis if the anxiety, panic attacks, or phobic avoidance
   (associated with a specific object or situation) is better explained
   or accounted for by another mental disorder (examples: fear of contamination
   in obsessive-compulsive disorder; avoidance of school in separation anxiety
   disorder; avoidance of social situations because of fear of embarrassment,
   in social phobia; avoidance of situation associated with trauma, in
   post-traumatic stress disorder, etc. ; panic attack; agoraphobia). **




THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 26: ** 78% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 27 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

The last 4 disorders to be covered in this thirty day series of the
very most common diagnoses are "Disorders Usually First Evident in Infancy,
Childhood, or Adolescence".  Attention-Deficit Disorder is the 1st of the 4.

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (I, II, III, and IV required)

I. EITHER A OR B below

  A. Inattention, as shown by at least 6 of the following symptoms which
     have persisted for at least 6 months and to a degree that is
     maladaptive or inconsistent with the individual's developmental level:

       --  frequently has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or
           play activities

       --  often does not seem to listen

       --  often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless
           mistakes

       --  does not follow through and fails to finish activities (and this is
           not due to failure to understand instructions or oppositional
           disorder and is clearly at a level that is not usual for his/her age)

       --  difficulties organizing tasks or activities (taking age level into
           account <-- something which needs to be done w/r to considering
           any of these behavioral features symptoms)

       --  often easily distracted by irrelevant stimuli

       --  often forgetful in daily activities

       --  frequently loses things needed for tasks or activities

       --  frequently avoids, is reluctant to engage in, or has difficulties in
           daily tasks that require sustained mental effort



  B. Hyperactivity/Impulsivity, as shown by at least 5 of the following symptoms
     which have persisted for at least 6 months and to a degree that is
     maladaptive or inconsistent with the individual's developmental level:

       --  often leaves his/her seat in classroom, etc., where remaining in
           one's seat is expected

       --  often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat

       --  runs about, climbs, etc. excessively, in situations where it is
           inappropriate  (in adolescents or adults, you may count this symptom
           even if it is limited to subjective feelings of restlessness)

       --  individual is always "on the go" or acts as if unusually driven
           (in a way that is not adaptive)

       --  often talks excessively

       --  difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activity (when that is
           appropriate)

       --  blurts out answers before questions are completed

       --  difficulty waiting in line or waiting his turn in games/conversations

       --  often butts in or intrudes on others in conversation/games or other
           activities


II. Impairment was present before age 7 (this may be assessed historically)


III.  the symptoms that cause impairment are present in 2 or more settings
      (examples, any 2 of the following:  school, work, leisure  -- other
       examples are possible)

IV.  there must be clear evidence of very significant distress or impairment
     in social, academic, or occupational functioning.


** Exclude this diagnosis if it occurs exclusively during the course of
    a pervasive developmental disorder, schizophrenia or other psychotic
    disorder; exclude if symptoms are better accounted for by a mood disorder,
    anxiety disorder, dissociative disorder (most dissociative disorders are
    rare), or a personality disorder (BUT NOTE: Persons must be a certain age
    before they can be diagnosed with a personality disorder -- as indicated
    by the diagnostic criteria for the personality disorders). **




THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 27: ** 81% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 28 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):

#28, #29, and #30 are three more "Disorders Usually First Evident in Infancy,
Childhood, or Adolescence" or three more "Childhood Disorders".  Typically, they
are only diagnosed in children; sometimes an adult diagnosis of the disorder is
allowed, but only when a Personality Disorder diagnosis does not fit.  Some
childhood disorders (for example, #30) can not (by definition) be given to a person
over age 18.

Conduct Disorder (may be diagnosed in an adult only when Antisocial Personality Disorder
                  does not fit the symptoms; Oppositional Defiant Disorder is often
                  an antecedent to Conduct Disorder; if a Conduct Disorder diagnosis
                  fits the symptoms, the diagnosis of Oppositional Defiant Disorder is
                  NOT also to be given, even if those criteria are also met -- which
                  they often are.)

I. a persistent and repetitive pattern of behavior in which either the basic
   rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms are violated, as
   manifested by the presense OF AT LEAST 3 of the following in the last year and
   with at least 1 of the following present in the last 6 months:

       --  frequently initiates fights

       --  often bullies, intimidates, or threatens

       --  has used a weapon that could cause serious harm to others

       --  has been physically cruel to people

       --  has been physically cruel to animals

       --  has deliberately destroyed other's property (other than fire setting)

       --  has engaged in fire setting with the intention of causing serious damage

       --  has broken into another's home, car, or building

       --  often lies or breaks promises to avoid obligations or obtain favors or goods

       --  stays out all night (starting before age 13) without permission of
           parents

       --  has run away from home overnight at least twice (or once without
           returning for a "lengthy" period)


       --  often truant from school, beginning before age 13 (or, for a working person,
           is often absent from work)


       --  has stolen with confrontation of the victim


       --  has stolen things of nontrivial value without confrontation of the victim


       --  has forced someone into sexual activity



** Exclusion:  See note at the top of this page. **




THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 28: ** 84% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 29 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):


Oppositional Defiant Disorder (another childhood disorder; similar behaviors typically
                                result in a personality disorder diagnosis in adults)

I. a pattern of hostile, negativistic, and defiant behavior lasting at least
   6 months, and during that time period at least 4 of the following symptoms
   are present:

       --  frequently argues with adults

       --  often loses his/her temper

       --  often actively defies adults or refuses to comply with requests from adults
           (or refuses to comply with rules)

       --  deliberately does things that annoy people


       --  often blames others for his/her mistakes


       --  easily annoyed by others (or "touchy")


       --  often angry or resentful


       --  often vindictive or spiteful



II.  The behavioral disturbance causes significant impairment in social, occupational,
     or academic functioning.


** Exclude diagnosis if the symptom behavior occurs exclusively during the course
   of a psychotic or mood disorder.  Also do not use this diagnosis if the individual
   meets the criteria for Conduct Disorder <-- viewed as having stricter criteria.  And,
   do NOT use this diagnosis for persons over 18 yr. old if the person meets the
   criteria for Antisocial Personality Disorder. **




THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 29: ** 87% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!

*** Day 30 ***:


"Diagnosis of the Day" (source, THE ONLY SOURCE, the DSM-IV):


Separation Anxiety Disorder (a childhood disorder) (I, II, III, & IV, as usual,
are all required)

I. developmentally inappropriate and excessive anxiety concerning separation
   from home or from those with whom a child is attached, as shown by at least 3 of
   the following symptoms being present:

       --  persistent and excessive worry about losing a major attachment figure
           or about harm befalling a major attachment figure

       --  persistent and excessive worry that an event will lead to a separation
           from a major attachment figure (some examples: worries about getting lost
           or being kidnapped)

       --  persistent and excessive fear about being left alone or reluctance to
           be left alone without major attachment figures (or other significant
           adults, in other settings)

       --  persistent refusal or reluctance to go to bed or to sleep without being
           near a major attachment figure (at some ages, may be: refusal to sleep
           away form home)


       --  persistent refusal or reluctance to go to school or other places
           because of fear of separation


       --  repeated nightmares, showing separation fears as a theme


       --  recurrent excessive distress when separation from home or a major
           attachment figure is going to occur or is anticipated


       --  repeated complaints of physical symptoms when there is going to be
           separation from a major attachment figure or when that is anticipated



II.  Duration of the symptoms is at least 4 weeks.


III.  Onset before age 18 (required).


IV.  The symptoms cause significant personal distress or impairment in social,
     academic, or other major area of life functioning.


** Exclude diagnosis if the symptom behavior occurs exclusively during the course
   of a pervasive developmental disorder, schizophrenia, or other psychotic disorder. **




THAT'S IT.  NOW YOU KNOW APPROX. 3% **MORE** OF WHAT PSYCHOLOGISTS "KNOW" about definitions of diagnoses.
 Cumulative total of Day 1 through Day 30: ** 90% **.
STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DIAGNOSIS EACH DAY!!!


*** Day 31 *** (this is the last post in this series!!:

*** This material may be freely reproduced and distributed, BUT ONLY AS A WHOLE ***
                 (always reproduce parts 1 - #31 in full and provide
                       access to the whole set at once)

It has been my effort to provide a short, effective, IN A REAL SENSE 90%+ thorough,
100% accurate, and useful "World's Shortest Great Course in Abnormal
Psychology and Diagnosis".  I believe I have been successful.  This might be
considered something like "Abnormal Behavior and Diagnosis for Dummies", OR
might be even better characterized as "Abnormal Behavior and Diagnoses in 24 Hours"
(though it would very unlikely take twenty-four hours to read it, it WOULD take
that long to memorize key parts and really practically LEARN it -- so this latter
title would actually well characterize this "course").  It is Abnormal Psychology
and Diagnosis for the masses, intended as a public service, providing what should
be general knowledge (but presently is not).  

(This is a Usenet course, set up to be found by those searching Usenet for information
 on diagnoses -- otherwise I have found that what one finds there is very little.
       There is no doubt that similar information can be found on the Internet,
          so once one identifies a disorder, more info. may be found there.)

At the bottom of this final post of this series (#31 -- ** this very post **),
there is an index to all the disorders covered.

              *** IMPORTANT FINAL NOTES ABOUT THE COURSE AND ITS COVERAGE ***

The disorders that were covered are all of the most common mental
disorders, EXCEPT well-known disorders such as substance abuse disorders
and eating disorders; organic disorders (where medical doctors are
usually involved -- including all sorts of brain damage disorders,
delirium, dementia, and including Alzheimer's and mental disorders due to
a person have several small strokes, etc); elimination disorders (bed-wetting);
learning disorders; speech disorders; mental retardation (where psychologists
are involved and can be useful, giving IQ tests); sexual disorders and sleep
disorders (where what they are is apparent when one has them);
adjustment disorders; and factitious disorders (= faking a disorder <-- even
that can be a disorder!).  Some impulse control disorders were not covered
because, again, I feel the problems here are either obvious or well known (for
example, pathological gambling;  THE KEY QUESTION TO ALWAYS ASK IS: Is the following
standard MET?: a person has a mental disorder IF:  he/she has mental symptoms
that cause significant personal distress or significant impairment in social,
occupational, or other major functioning).

Delusional Disorder was only partially defined, but you were told enough to know
when to look it up.  Also, not covered were the dissociative disorders -- where
all, but depersonalization disorder, are *** RARE *** (the most spectacular of
the rare dissociative disorders being multiple personality disorder and fugue).
Conversion Disorder (historically known as "hysteria" & much more common around 1900)
is NOW RARE and was thus NOT covered in this 30-part presentation.  Gender Identity
Disorder and some other less common childhood disorders were not covered.

Tic disorders, including Tourette's Disorder, were not covered (in this case, here
again, because the phenomenon is familiar to most of the adult, aware public).

In short, all the disorders that are at all common and where diagnostic
criteria are needed to know what a disorder is called have been covered. **NOW**,
in virtually all cases, the informed public knows what something is called (OR
it would be, by chance, one of the rarer disorders).

(Now, in almost all cases, people can answer: "What the heck is that set of symptoms?")

******

Finally:
One should know that OFFICIALLY anyone has a mental disorder ANY TIME:
he/she has mental symptoms that cause significant personal distress or significant
impairment in social occupational, or other major functioning.   (I mentioned this
in one context above, but readers should be aware that this is generally true.)

That being said, disorders sometimes do not fit the specifically defined
diagnostic criteria.  This is why virtually all major categories and
sub-categories of disorders have a more open NOS diagnosis that may be
given.  This stands for "Not Otherwise Specified".  For example:
there is Mood Disorder NOS, Personality Disorder NOS, Psychotic Disorder NOS,
Anxiety Disorder NOS, etc., etc., etc.  Plus there are "slop" categories like
Adjustment Disorders -- that try to provide SOME category, no matter how vague.

IT IS MY BELIEF THAT A SIMILAR SHORT COURSE COULD BE PROVIDED ON THE
TREATMENT TECHNIQUES USED BY PSYCHOLOGISTS.  AT THAT POINT ONE WOULD NOT
ONLY KNOW 90% OF THE DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA PSYCHOLOGISTS KNOW, BUT 90% OF
EVERYTHING THEY REALLY KNOW (in any real or practical sense).  I say all this
because I believe it is important for people to often find other ways of help.
I am a big believer in friends helping friends and in peer counseling and
treatment to help people more often and VERY LIKELY just as effectively.  Much of
what psychologists do is much ado about little, even when they commonly
(and often fraudulently) refer to what they do as "therapy" ("psychotherapy").


                  **********  I  N  D  E  X    **********



The criteria for nearly all common diagnoses which
psychologists diagnose are in this set of posts
(the above link brings up this whole set):

    Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      PARANOID PERSONALITY DISORDER

#2  Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      SCHIZOID PERSONALITY DISORDER

#3  Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      SCHIZOTYPAL PERSONALITY DISORDER

#4  Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER

#5  Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      ANTISOCIAL  PERSONALITY DISORDER

#6  Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER

#7  Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      HISTRIONIC PERSONALITY DISORDER

#8  Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE PERSONALITY DISORDER

#9  Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      AVOIDANT PERSONALITY DISORDER

#10 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      DEPENDENT PERSONALITY DISORDER

#11 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      ACUTE STRESS DISORDER

#12 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      AGORAPHOBIA

#13 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      BIPOLAR DISORDERS

#14 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      BODY DYSMORPHIC  DISORDER

#15 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      DYSTHYMIC DISORDER

#16 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER

#17 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      HYPOCHONDRIASIS

#18 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      INTERMITTENT EXPLOSIVE DISORDER

#19 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER

#20 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      MAJOR DEPRESSION

#21 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      PANIC DISORDER

#22 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

#23 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      SCHIZOPHRENIA & SIMILAR PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS

#24 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      SOCIAL PHOBIA

#25 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      SOMATIZATION DISORDER

#26 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      SPECIFIC (SIMPLE) PHOBIA

#27 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER

#28 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      CONDUCT DISORDER

#29 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      OPPOSITIONAL DEFIANT DISORDER

#30 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      SEPARATION ANXIETY DISORDER

#31 Psychologists ... PLUS THE Disorder of the Day      *** INDEX *** &
                                                           DISORDERS NOT COVERED AND WHY