Which pair of criteria is essential to consider for DSM-5 diagnosis during a clinical interview?

• A. Inclusion criteria, exclusion criteria
• B. Age and education
• C. Family income
• D. Favorite color

Answer: (A)

Diagnosis with DSM-5 hinges on two things: whether the client meets the inclusion criteria and whether any exclusion criteria apply. In a clinical interview, you systematically determine if the patient’s symptoms meet the disorder’s specified criteria (such as the number, type, duration, and resulting impairment) and you check for exclusion factors that would rule out the diagnosis (for example symptoms better explained by another disorder, a medical condition, or substance use). The other choices don’t fit because age and education, family income, or a favorite color do not establish DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. They might influence context or functioning, but they don’t determine a DSM-5 diagnosis.