The DSM and its missteps

This week’s reading, “We Are Certain Of Our Own Insanity” by Lewis reflected on the differing protesting techniques and perspectives of their activism. While some lauded the removal of homosexuality from the DSM, others dismissed it and even embraced the idea of insanity/neuro divergence. This can be seen in the disabled rights movement as well, where there is much disagreement on how things should work or operate. Even things such as language are disputed, with some embracing outdated terms/ placement of words and others arguing for new terminology. Even in the early days of the movement in the 60s and 70s, some would go marching outside buildings, stage sit ins, destroy public spaces in order to make them accessible, while others lobbied law makers and aimed to change the laws and gain protections.

Every movement will have its differing opinions and operations within it, and the disabled community is no exception. Of course, being included in the DSM is a strong step in the right direction (when using the correct language and description of the disability in question) to some, while others argue against it, such as autistic activists who state that the DSM description of autism is inadequate. The DSM has a long history of missteps, and while it is generally accepted as the high standard of categorization and diagnosis tool, even today many believe it needs restructuring. Of course, as our understanding of certain disabilities grow, so to will our tools need to be updated along side them.