Mental Disorder: A Conceptual Engineering Approach

This paper explores the possibility of defining the concept of mental disorder through conceptual engineering. This method proposes shaping a concept ac- cording to the goals it should serve. I argue that mental disorders should be understood as unitary mental conditions involving harm. Such harm should be assessed against justifiable standards and arise from factors beyond an individual’s ordinary control. The paper examines this proposal through five components of the proposed concept of mental disorder: unity, harm, normative standards, factors beyond control, and mental nature. The aim is to provide a framework that could support clearer diagnosis, ethical justification of treat- ment, and improved theoretical understanding.