Stress-induced and Fear Circuitry Disorders: Refining the Research Agenda for DSM-V - Softcover

Gavin Andrews

Softcover

ISBN 10: 089042344X ISBN 13: 9780890423448

Publisher: American Psychiatric Publishing Inc, 2008

Synopsis

As disorders in which stress or fear play major roles present an increasing need for psychiatric care around the world, this volume summarizes current research to determine whether a specific group of stress-induced and fear-based disorders form a distinct syndrome independent from other anxiety disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder or generalized anxiety. Intended to suggest DSM-V revisions regarding the classification of these disorders, Stress-Induced and Fear Circuitry Disorders reflects findings that may lead to more refined treatments for these specific anxiety disorders based on a better understanding of the biological and environmental factors that contribute to their development and symptoms. Thirty contributors, all international authorities on this group of mental illnesses, clarify how these disorders develop and what factors contribute to symptomatology. Focusing on posttraumatic stress disorder, panic disorder and agoraphobia, social phobias, and specific phobia, the authors explore the possibility of linking the classification and etiology of these conditions by showing that they may be closely related in terms of brain pathophysiology. In addition to assessing the stability of disorders across patient lifespans and determining whether they form a cohesive and distinct group, the authors examine shared etiologies and biopsychosocial correlates, as well as aspects unique to each disorder. Among the book's specific insights: How minority populations, particularly African Americans, are differentially affected by these disorders. The neuronal mechanisms of normal fear and anxiety, including how changes in the genetics of the serotonin system can increase the risk of anxiety. The role of cognition in symptom presentation and treatment, revealing cognitive biases that favor the processing of threat-related information. The contribution of stress and psychosocial factors, such as peer victimization and childhood sexual abuse. The use of neuroimaging to analyze neural structure and function for each of the four disorder groups. How neurochemistry and neuroendocrine markers may aid in classification of anxiety disorders. The contribution of substance abuse to the pathophysiology of these disorders. Given the importance of changes to DSM for professional education and public health, this book offers important new ways of thinking about stress-induced and fear-based disorders. It not only allows researchers to more accurately assess their diagnostic classifications, but also can help clinicians more effectively communicate with patients regarding the nature of their illness and the importance of adhering to treatment regimens.

About this title

Review

"Research into the pathophysiology of anxiety disorders is evolving rapidly and this book will give readers a glimpse into important new conceptualizations about these common problems. I highly recommend it."-- "Doddy Enterprises", "April 24, 2009"

"This is a very ambitious undertaking by some of the best minds in our field. By offering a clear hypothesis and a research agenda to test it, their effort has the potential not only to place the classification of key anxiety disorders on a more empirical foundation, but also to significantly advance our understanding of their pathophysiology."-- "Michael R. Liebowitz M.D., Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, Columbia University."

"The research reviews in this volume are extensive and comprehensive, presenting a clear picture of the current state of research as well as suggestions about the most fruitful directions for future research. This volume should be read by any researcher and/or graduate student studying anxiety disorders and will no doubt greatly enhance his or her collection. Indeed, anyone interested in these four disorders could do no better than start with this collection of articles since it represents the most timely and comprehensive overview of research in the area to date."-- "Drs. Michael B. Blank and Nuwan Jayawickreme, PsycCRITIQUES"

Synopsis

This volume summarizes current research to determine whether a specific group of stress-induced and fear-based disorders form a distinct syndrome independent from other anxiety disorders. Intended to contribute to DSM-V revisions regarding classification of these disorders, "Stress-Induced and Fear Circuitry Disorders" reflects findings that may lead to more refined treatments for these conditions based on a better understanding of the biological and environmental factors that contribute to their development. Thirty international authorities clarify how these disorders develop and what factors contribute to symptomatology. Focusing on posttraumatic stress disorder, panic disorder and agoraphobia, social phobia, and specific phobia, the authors explore the possibility of linking the classification and etiology of these conditions by showing that they may be closely related in terms of brain pathophysiology. Specific coverage ranges from consideration of the disorders among minorities to the effects of stress and psychosocial factors, to the contribution of substance abuse.

By offering important new ways of thinking about these disorders, the book not only allows researchers to more accurately assess these diagnostic classifications but also can help clinicians more effectively communicate with patients regarding the nature of their illness and its treatment.

About this edition

• Publisher: American Psychiatric Publishing Inc
• Publication date: 2008
• ISBN 10: 089042344X
• ISBN 13: 9780890423448
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 352
• Editor: Gavin Andrews, Dennis S. Charney, Paul J. Sirovatka, Darrel A. Regier