Topic: Dsm Iv

A review of the Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease lists retrospective psychiatric diagnoses for several U.S. Presidents based on DSM-IV criteria. Notable mentions include John Quincy Adams (bipolar), Franklin Pierce (alcohol dependence), and Abraham Lincoln (major depressive disorder), illustrating that mental health struggles have been present throughout the history of the executive branch.

A new CDC report indicates a 30% increase in autism diagnoses, with one in 68 American children now identified on the spectrum. The report notes a significant rise in diagnoses among children with average or higher IQs. The hosts argue that the "autism spectrum" has become a broad business for the pharmaceutical industry and NGOs like Autism Speaks, potentially pathologizing brilliant or non-conformist children.

The clinical definition of Tourette Syndrome from the DSM-IV is reviewed, including associated symptoms like hyperactivity and impulsivity. The segment critiques the use of heavy psychiatric drugs such as Haldol and Risperdal for treating tics, noting their primary use for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

The hosts discuss the inclusion of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. They jokingly diagnose themselves with the disorder, noting that traits like questioning authority and cynicism are now classified as diseases. They also touch upon the history of the DSM, including its past classification of homosexuality.