Research Domain Criteria (RDoC)

The Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) is an approach developed by the National Institute of Mental Health to better understand mental health issues. Instead of focusing only on specific diagnoses like depression or anxiety, RDoC explores underlying factors such as thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and brain functions across different conditions. It aims to identify how these components interact scientifically, helping researchers develop more precise and personalized treatments. Essentially, RDoC shifts the focus from labeled disorders to understanding the biological and psychological processes that contribute to mental health, promoting a more integrated and research-based approach to diagnosis and therapy.