American psychiatric association
American Psychiatric Association
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) is a professional organization of psychiatrists in the United States. It is responsible for various initiatives in the field of mental health, including the publication of diagnostic criteria for mental disorders.
Pronunciation
American Psychiatric Association: /əˈmɛrɪkən saɪˈkaɪətrɪk əˌsoʊsiˈeɪʃən/
Etymology
The term "American Psychiatric Association" is derived from its function and location. "American" refers to its establishment and operation within the United States. "Psychiatric" is derived from the Greek words "psyche," meaning mind, and "iatros," meaning healer. "Association" signifies a group or organization.
History
The American Psychiatric Association was founded in 1844, originally as the Association of Medical Superintendents of American Institutions for the Insane. It changed its name to the American Medico-Psychological Association in 1892 and finally to the American Psychiatric Association in 1921.
Activities
The APA is involved in establishing and updating the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), a widely used manual for diagnosing mental disorders. It also publishes various journals and pamphlets to disseminate psychiatric research, provides continuing education opportunities for its members, and advocates for improved care for individuals with mental disorders.
Related Terms
- Psychiatry: The branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM): A manual published by the American Psychiatric Association that provides a common language and standard criteria for the classification of mental disorders.
- Mental disorder: A behavioral or mental pattern that causes significant distress or impairment of personal functioning.
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