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DSM-5 and Malingering: a Modest Proposal

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Abstract

The DSM criteria for identifying malingering are reviewed and found to be flawed on both conceptual and practical grounds. Alternative models for diagnosing feigned psychiatric, physical, and neuropsychological symptoms are presented. A number of useful features of these systems are highlighted for potential contributions to modified DSM criteria. It is recommended that the present DSM text on malingering be replaced with feigned psychiatric, physical, or neuropsychological symptoms and suggestions for developing criteria for this condition are made.

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Correspondence to David T. R. Berry.

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David T. R. Berry holds the copyright to the Letter Memory Test. All proceeds from the Letter Memory Test are donated to the Harris Psychological Services Clinic.

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Berry, D.T.R., Nelson, N.W. DSM-5 and Malingering: a Modest Proposal. Psychol. Inj. and Law 3, 295–303 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12207-010-9087-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12207-010-9087-7

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