What is the main function of the DSM-5?

The main function of the DSM-5, or the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, is to classify mental health disorders and guide the diagnosis of these conditions. It serves as a comprehensive framework for mental health professionals, providing standardized criteria that facilitate accurate diagnoses. This is crucial in various settings, including correctional facilities where understanding an inmate's mental health status can influence their treatment and rehabilitation options.

By defining specific disorders, the DSM-5 helps clinicians communicate effectively about patients, ensuring consistent understanding and interventions across different care providers. While treatment protocols, medication compliance, and parole eligibility are important aspects of managing mental health within the criminal justice system, they are not the primary purpose of the DSM-5. Instead, the focus of the manual is on diagnosis, which is foundational for any subsequent treatment or management decisions.