The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology

The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) represents a new way of classifying mental illness that is based on quantitative research investigating how signs and symptoms naturally co-occur across individuals. This model is dimensional and hierarchical, giving it an advantage over the limitations of traditional classification systems, such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), and is well-supported by the literature. This model has the potential to improve clinical, genetic, and neurobiological research, as well as improve clinical practice. Though HiTOP is a relatively young system, it is well-suited to adapting to the future of the field.