Relative size of the literatures for psychopathological disorders: Number of articles pertaining to DSM-IV diagnostic categories

A computerized search of the 1991-1997 PsycLIT database was used to quantif y the size of the literature for each of the DSM-IV mental disorders. The s earch included DSM-IV/IIIR diagnoses and alternative terms for the disorder s to provide a complete assessment. Generally it was found that major disor ders and those with neurophysiological components were investigated a great deal (there were over 10,000 articles for both major depression and schizo phrenia) while there were few articles concerning rare or newly introduced disorders. Within diagnostic groups certain disorders received the preponde rance of research attention. Factors related to the degree to which a menta l disorder is investigated are discussed. These findings should stimulate c onsideration of whether clinical research is directing its efforts in a way that best promotes understanding of the nature and treatment of mental dis orders. (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons. Inc.