ABSTRACT
The goal of this chapter is to provide an overview of the use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (e.g., DSM-1/1-R, DSM-IV; American Psychiatric Association, 1987, 1994) as they relate to the diagnosis and understanding of mental disorders whose hallmarks include significant cognitive deficits. Considerable discussion is provided regarding changes in prevailing notions regarding the term "organic" in the DSM-IV. Distinctions made by the DSM constructs of delirium and dementia are outlined and a review of recent neuropsychological findings in selected neuropsychiatric forms of classical dementias (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia) is provided.
