Table 3.
Desirable properties of a classification system
| 1. | Uses measures that are likely to map onto biological systems | |
| 2. | Uses multiple descriptors of an individual’s psychopathology: | |
| - | Symptomatology, severity, course, impairment, etc. | |
| - | Categorical and dimensional measures | |
| 3. | Explicitly recognizes that the scheme will develop in response to new data: | |
| - | Forward and backward compatibility with other classification systems | |
| 4. | Can accommodate sub-clinical psychopathology | |
| 5. | Facilitates grouping together of individuals likely to share similar pathology | |
| 6. | Is flexible for different needs: | |
| - | Allows different versions for different uses (clinical, research, service, etc.) | |
| 7. | Is longitudinal rather than cross-sectional | |
| 8. | Is developmentally sensitive: | |
| - | Provides continuity across the lifespan |