Final answer:
In the DSM 5, some disorders have experienced a decrease in inter-rater reliability due to changes such as merging Asperger's syndrome with the autism spectrum disorder category. However, there have also been efforts to improve cultural and gender sensitivity in the diagnostic criteria, influencing diagnoses across diverse populations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The DSM 5, which stands for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition, has been the subject of much discussion regarding its changes from previous editions. One of the major concerns is related to the inter-rater reliability of the diagnosis of certain disorders. Inter-rater reliability refers to the level at which different clinicians provide the same diagnosis for the same condition. Some disorders have seen a decrease in inter-rater reliability, making the diagnosis less consistent among different health professionals.
For example, the elimination of Asperger's syndrome as a distinct classification and its subsequent merger with the autism spectrum disorder category has been a subject of criticism. The concern here is that nuanced presentations of symptoms that were previously captured under separate labels may now lead to challenges in diagnoses and appropriate treatment. On the other hand, there have been efforts to make the DSM 5 more sensitive to gender and cultural variables, which may influence the reliability and validity of the diagnosis for diverse populations. Additionally, the APA has received criticism for potentially turning common human experiences into diagnoses of mental illness, potentially affecting the perceived prevalence of certain disorders.