ASWB Clinical Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct choice indicates that the "Not Otherwise Specified" (NOS) diagnostic categories have been replaced with two new categories in the DSM-5: "Other Specified" and "Unspecified" diagnoses. This change was implemented to improve diagnostic precision and enhance communication regarding the nature of a patient's condition.

The "Other Specified" category is used when a clinician chooses to specify the reason that the criteria are not met for a specific diagnosis, allowing for more detailed documentation of the clinical presentation. It provides flexibility for the clinician to describe the specific characteristics of the disorder while still maintaining a diagnosis.

On the other hand, the "Unspecified" category is utilized when there is insufficient information to make a specific diagnosis or when the clinician prefers not to specify the reason that the criteria are not met. This can occur in situations where the details are not yet fully known or in contexts where a quick decision is necessary, such as in emergencies.

This refinement in diagnostic categories aims to enhance clarity and specificity, which can lead to better treatment planning and outcomes for patients.