Integrating Neuroscience in Clinical Psychiatry

Abstract

The field of psychiatry is witnessing debates over the diagnostic nosology that is used to understand and treat psycho- pathological conditions. Recent findings from the field have highlighted the lack of objective specificity that is required to comprehensively understand, delineate, and treat psychopathological manifestations. Studies in human neurosci- ence, on the other hand, have expanded our understanding of the brain and how it regulates human cognition, emo- tion, and behaviour. Considering these advances, it is evident that there is an insistent need for the reappraisal of current diagnostic standards and criteria, and the inclusion of a dynamic and translational clinical neuroscientific approach to study psychopathology. The present viewpoint comments on the challenges facing psychiatric diagnostic nosology and calls for the integration of neuroscientific approaches in clinical psychiatry.