overview

While the DSM focuses on symptomatology, social workers should consider its use with a broader understanding of the client’s environment, culture, and life circumstances. Keep in mind how environmental stressors, systemic oppression, or cultural values may influence the presentation of symptoms or the appropriateness of a diagnosis.

Social workers are ethically obligated to avoid pathologizing clients unnecessarily. When answering exam questions, ensure that the use of the DSM aligns with client-centered and strengths-based principles.

When encountering DSM-related questions on the ASWB exam:

• Focus on symptoms, duration, and functional impairments as outlined in the DSM.
• Eliminate distractors by understanding the key differentiators between similar disorders.
• Pay attention to cultural and developmental factors that might shape the client’s presentation.

• Understand the key features of common mental health disorders, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, and personality disorders.
• Recognize how these additional descriptors refine diagnoses (e.g., severity levels, associated medical conditions).
• Be prepared to identify disorders that commonly occur together, such as substance use disorders with mood disorders or ADHD with anxiety.
•  Understand how disorders manifest across the lifespan, as the DSM highlights different presentations based on age and developmental stage.