What is the purpose of the DSM-5?

The DSM-5, or the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, serves as a comprehensive guide for classifying and diagnosing mental health disorders. It is utilized by mental health professionals to ensure that individuals are accurately diagnosed based on standardized criteria, facilitating effective treatment and communication among clinicians. This manual includes detailed descriptions of mental disorders, diagnostic criteria, and codes for each condition, which assists in identifying specific mental health issues.

The other options are not aligned with the purpose of the DSM-5. Providing a guide for effective teaching methods pertains more to educational psychology rather than clinical diagnosis. Similarly, while improving public health is an important goal, the DSM-5 does not focus on population-level health strategies; instead, it is centered on individual mental health diagnoses. Summarizing psychological theories also does not fall under the DSM-5's scope, as it is primarily a diagnostic instrument rather than a theoretical compendium. Through its structured approach to diagnosis, the DSM-5 plays a critical role in the mental health field.