Labeling Effects of a Controversial Psychiatric Diagnosis: A Vignette Experiment of Late Luteal Phase Dysphoric Disorder

ABSTRACT

During the 1990s debate arose about the inclusion of Late Luteal Phase Dysphoric Disorder in the fourth edition of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual. Opponents argued that the inclusion of this category would increase stigma and be used as a legal defense for child abuse and other violent crimes. Proponents argued that it would decrease stigma and enhance treatment seeking. Using an experimental vignette design, we tested these propositions in a study of 307 men and women living in Putnam County, New York. In general, the results do not indicate a pervasive negative impact of this label. On the other hand, labeling the disorder a “psychiatric condition” did increase recommendations for psychiatric help.

KEYWORDS:

• Menstruation
• diagnostic categories
• stigma