Introduction to DSM-5 criteria linked papers in drug and alcohol dependence.

Abstract

The DSM-5 Substance Use Disorders (SUD) Workgroup has considered a number of issues in the process of implementing revisions designed to result in better definitions of the disorders. One of the main issues considered was what to do about the DSM-IV division between two disorders, abuse and dependence. This issue arose because the reliability and validity of abuse was far lower and more variable than the reliability and validity of dependence, and also because misconceptions regarding the relationship of abuse to dependence abound among clinicians and researchers. Additional issues the SUD workgroup considered included whether to add new criteria, e.g., craving, and remove existing criteria, e.g. legal problems. Some issues pertaining to gambling disorders were considered as well.