It is too early for adjusting the adjustment disorder category

Abstract

Despite the relative frequency with which the diagnosis of adjustment disorder is made, there is a very limited research literature in regard to its cause, epidemiology and treatment. This review summarizes recent papers and findings in relation to this diagnostic category. The conceptual underpinnings of the diagnosis adjustment disorder is the subject of ongoing debate as is its differentiation from other psychiatric disorders such as depressive disorders. One group has proposed and tested a diagnostic model of adjustment disorder as a stress-response syndrome, related to posttraumatic stress disorder, which is a distinct psychopathological entity rather than a diagnosis of exclusion. Initial neuroimaging work in adjustment disorder indicates that this may be a helpful approach for increasing understanding of the biology of the disorder. Recent studies support the use of brief psychotherapy in the treatment of adjustment disorder. Although the studies and articles described in this review raise some interesting questions in relation to the diagnosis, cause, epidemiology and treatment of adjustment disorder, much more research is needed before we can draw some firm conclusions about the need for the redefinition and reclassification of this diagnostic category.