American Psychiatric Association

American organization

Also known as: APA

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Last updated

July 21, 2026

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The American Psychiatric Association (APA) is a professional organization of doctors in the United States founded in 1844. It is a leading organization in the mental health industry and publishes the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), which provides diagnostic criteria for mental health conditions. The DSM has evolved over its editions, reflecting changes in the understanding and classification of mental disorders. The APA advocates for humane treatment of the mentally ill and promotes the science of psychiatry. It is also known for its publication, the American Journal of Psychiatry.123

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attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
In 1980 the American Psychiatric Association (APA) replaced these terms with attention deficit disorder (ADD). Then in 1987 the APA linked ADD with hyperactivity, a condition that sometimes accompanies attention disorders but may exist independently. The new syndrome was named attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.
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In 1980 the American Psychiatric Association (APA) replaced these terms with attention deficit disorder (ADD). Then in 1987 the APA linked ADD with hyperactivity, a condition that sometimes accompanies attention disorders but may exist independently. The new syndrome was named attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.
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Amariah Brigham
…Insane, which later became the American Psychiatric Association. That year Brigham also founded the American Journal of Insanity (later known as the American Journal of Psychiatry), one of the first English-language journals devoted exclusively to mental illness.
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…Insane, which later became the American Psychiatric Association. That year Brigham also founded the American Journal of Insanity (later known as the American Journal of Psychiatry), one of the first English-language journals devoted exclusively to mental illness.
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Thomas Story Kirkbride
…Insane, now known as the American Psychiatric Association.
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…Insane, now known as the American Psychiatric Association.
Read More