The paper will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of categorical and dimensional classification systems.
In ICD-10, a categorical assessment scheme is used. The criteria refer on the one hand to harmful use and on the other hand to the dependence syndrome. In the DSM-5, the diagnosis is based on a semi-dimensional scheme (categorization according to expressions of severity).
A higher risk of stigmatization and one-sided treatment success criteria (abstinence vs. drinking quantity reduction and coping with everyday life) are among the potential problems of the categorical approach.
