Defining pathology is one of the hardest challenges in mental health. “Normal” is a broad spectrum. Reliable biomarkers are rare. Culture influences the perception and manifestation of symptoms. Even when you do everything right, the creation of a new diagnosis can cause unexpected harm. Our current method of diagnosis—codified in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5)—is widely considered to be grossly inadequate [1].
Thanks for an enlightening read. The discussion about ephebophilia is particularly interesting. Which makes me wonder about relationships with people with disorders like growth hormone deficiency (like the reality TV star Shauna Rae). People like this can be mentally mature, but are forever trapped in an immature body.
Great read , thanks for the work you're doing in this area !
Thanks for an enlightening read. The discussion about ephebophilia is particularly interesting. Which makes me wonder about relationships with people with disorders like growth hormone deficiency (like the reality TV star Shauna Rae). People like this can be mentally mature, but are forever trapped in an immature body.
Absolutely! There will always be complexities that cannot be accounted for. Values-based flexibility is critical to resolve these situations.