Which of the following is a part of the DSM-5 criteria (per Schwitzer and Rubin)?

• A. Symptoms
• B. Duration
• C. Impairment
• D. Etiology

Answer: (C)

The key idea being tested is that a DSM-5 diagnosis hinges on functional impact, not just the presence of symptoms. In Schwitzer and Rubin’s view, and in DSM-5 practice, a pattern of symptoms must also cause clinically significant distress or impairment in important areas of functioning (social, occupational, etc.) to meet diagnostic criteria. This emphasis on impairment ensures the label reflects a meaningful, disruptive condition rather than just temporary distress or quirks in behavior.

Etiology, or the cause of the symptoms, isn’t part of the diagnostic criteria itself—the DSM-5 defines disorders based on symptom patterns, duration, and the resulting impairment. While symptoms and the time frame are indeed necessary components, impairment is the criterion that ties those symptoms to a disorder by showing the condition actually disrupts functioning. For example, depressive symptoms persisting for a sufficient duration meet criteria only if they also substantially impair daily functioning.