DSM-5 and Encyclopedias
What is a "Reference Source?"
"Reference" is a loose term we use in libraryland to describe those works that have a certain general usefulness to them. These sources include encyclopedias, dictionaries, handbooks, etc. They typically provide broad summary and overview rather than in-depth analysis, so they make great places to start any research project.
Reference Databases
- DSM-5 Library This link opens in a new windowOnline edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5®), used by clinicians and researchers to diagnose and classify mental disorders. WFU access includes DSM-5, the DSM-5 Handbook of Differential Diagnosis, and DSM-5 Clinical Cases.
- Gale Virtual Reference LibrarySearchable full text of reference books in many subjects. Books can be searched together or individually.
- CREDO ReferenceCredo Reference includes over 650 titles with particular emphasis on subject encyclopedias, dictionaries, atlases, and reference handbooks. Also included are over 1,100 short reference videos, nearly 450,000 high-resolution art images, photographs and maps across all subject areas.
- Science Direct (limit to Reference Works)Tip: Limit your search to "Reference Works" in Psychology and Social Sciences.
- Mental Measurements YearbookContains descriptions of nearly 1900 commercially published standardized educational, personality, vocational aptitude, and psychological tests. Each record provides authors, publishers, time requirements, score descriptions, intended populations, validity/reliability data, and critical reviews.
Statistics & Other Useful Sources
- National Institutes for Mental Health: StatisticsThis resource represents the "best statistics currently available on the prevalence, treatment, and costs of mental disorders for the population of the United States, in addition to information about possible consequences of mental illnesses, such as suicide and disability."
- SAMHSA’s National Mental Health Information Center (NMHIC): Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS): Mental Health Statistics"SAMHSA's Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS) provides guidance and technical assistance to decision makers at all levels of government on the design, structure, content, and use of mental health information systems, with the ultimate goal of improving the quality of mental health programs and services delivery."
- Statistical Abstract of the United States"The Statistical Abstract of the United States, published since 1878, is the authoritative and comprehensive summary of statistics on the social, political, and economic organization of the United States."
