Philosophy, Psychiatry, & Psychology

Abstract:

We are at a turning point in the categorical classification system of mental disorders. Our understanding of psychopathology is shifting, and innovative models have been formulated. This contribution aims to examine current and new frames of thought on psychopathology to deliver a more representative frame of thought of mental disorders. The article is based on a critical review of the literature and reports a theoretical–philosophical analysis. An examination of our current thinking model of mental disorders shows an essentialist and reductionist frame of thought of mental disorders. Dimensional models, network theory, transdiagnostic theory, and the personalized approach are discussed as alternatives. The analysis supports the conclusion to move from a "general, static, categorical, disease model" toward a "symptom-transcending, complex, dynamic and personalized model" in our understanding of mental disorders. An essentialist and reductionist frame of thought should be abandoned to allow a "relationalist turn."