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Psychopathology is the study of mental health disorders, including their symptoms, causes, and impact on functioning. In social work practice, understanding psychopathology is important because it helps social workers recognize patterns of distress while still viewing clients within the broader context of their lives. Gray (2024) emphasizes that social workers should understand mental illness without reducing individuals to diagnoses, which aligns with a strengths based and person centered approach. The process of psychiatric diagnosis involves gathering information through interviews, observation, history, and assessment tools, then comparing that information to established criteria. The DSM provides standardized diagnostic criteria that promote consistency and communication across professionals. Gray (2024) states that the DSM should be used as a guide and not a checklist. Other diagnostic frameworks, such as the biopsychosocial model, help social workers consider environmental, cultural, and systemic factors that influence mental health. Using multiple perspectives allows social workers to make ethical, accurate diagnoses while honoring the client's lived experience (Gray, 2024). Need Assignment Help?