DSM: Abbreviation for the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders," a comprehensive classification of officially recognized psychiatric disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association , for use by mental health professionals to ensure uniformity of diagnosis.

DSM describes symptoms and does not discuss the causes of the disorders. DSM-IV designates the 4th edition. Issued in 1993, DSM-IV is currently the latest edition (as of 2001).