Which of the following statements about the term 'insane' in the context of diagnosing psychological disorders is accurate?

• A. Psychologists frequently use the term 'insane' to diagnose severe mental disorders.
• B. The DSM-5 includes 'insanity' as a recognized psychological disorder.
• C. Insanity is a specific diagnosis used to describe schizophrenia.
• D. The term 'insane' is primarily a legal term and is not used as a clinical diagnosis in psychology.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the term 'insane' is not a clinical term used by psychologists to diagnose mental disorders; instead, it is primarily a legal term.
2. Recognize that the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) is the standard classification manual used by psychologists and psychiatrists, and it does not include 'insanity' as a diagnosis.
3. Know that psychological diagnoses focus on specific disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, or anxiety, rather than broad legal terms like 'insane'.
4. Be aware that the term 'insane' is often used in legal contexts to determine criminal responsibility or competency, not for clinical diagnosis or treatment planning.
5. Conclude that the accurate statement is that 'insane' is a legal term and not used as a clinical diagnosis in psychology.