Glossary / Lexicon

Axis V refers to the diagnostic axis of the DSM-IV that provides a numerical index of the individual's overall level of functioning.

Using the DSM-IV-TR classification system, the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) score is recorded on Axis V - Global Assessment of Functioning is for reporting the clinician 's judgment of the individual's overall level of functioning and carrying out activities of daily living. This information is useful in planning treatment and measuring its impact, and in predicting outcome. The Global Assessment of Functioning Scale is a 100-point scale that measures a patients overall level of psychological, social, and occupational functioning on a hypothetical continuum.