DSM and the issue of co-morbidity in childhood mental disorders - a functional perspective and proposed solution This episode is primarily relevant to professionals and students.

In this episode, R. Trent Codd, III, Ed.S. interviews Ennio Cipani, PhD about the DSM system and it’s problem with co-morbidity.  They discuss a number of things including:

• The difference between a topographic and functional approach to diagnosis and treatment 
• How the functional approach might be an approach that escapes the DSM problem of co-morbidity 
• His functional diagnostic system 
• How an analysis of negative symptoms can have utility for a diagnostic system to discern chronic conditions 

References related to this podcast:

Functional Behavioral Assessment, Diagnosis and Treatment (2nd Edition, 2011).  Cipani and Schock. 

The issue of co-morbidity in DSM-V Childhood Mental Disorders: A functional perspective and proposed alternative diagnostic system. (2012, May 7). CBT Radio Podcast.

ENNIO CIPANI, PhD. BIOGRAPHY

Ennio Cipani, Ph.D., a graduate of Florida State University, is a licensed psychologist 

and a full professor at National University- Fresno. He has published numerous articles, 

chapters, instructional materials and books (available from amazon.com, search Cipani) 

including Classroom management for all teachers: Evidence-based practice (3rd edition, 2008) and Punishment on 

Trial (2004). He has given many workshops and continuing education courses focusing on the effective

management of problem child behavior. Dr. Cipani has been doing in-home and 

school based behavioral consultations for families and school personnel since 1982.

He has dealt with many families and a variety of behavior problems, conducting assessment

and intervention activities in homes and classrooms.