While browsing the DSM-IV-TR, I noticed an interesting statement regarding the definition of mental disorder which has some interesting implications; most notably - that there is no definition for a mental disorder.
"In addition, this syndrome or pattern must not be merely an expectable and culturally sanctioned response to a particular event, for example, the death of a loved one. Whatever its original cause, it must currently be considered a manifestation of a behavioral, psychological, or biological dysfunction in the individual. Neither deviant behavior (e.g.,political, religious, or sexual) nor conflicts that are primarily between the individual and society are mental disorders unless the deviance or conflict is a symptom of a dysfunction in the individual, as described above." - Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition Text Revision (p xxxi )
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