What is the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF)?

The GAF is a rating scale for evaluating the overall functioning of a person. It was included in the DSM-IV-TR on Axis V and measures psychological, social, and occupational functioning on a hypothetical continuum of mental health-illness.

Who developed the GAF and when?

Based on the Health-Sickness Rating Scale by Luborsky (1962), adapted for DSM-III in 1980 and refined for DSM-IV in 1994.

What type of assessment is the GAF?

It is a clinician-rated scale that can also be adapted for self-assessment purposes.

What areas does the GAF assess?

• Psychological functioning: Mood, anxiety, reality testing
• Social functioning: Relationships and social interactions
• Occupational functioning: Work, school, or role performance
• Overall functioning: General life management and independence

How is the GAF scored?

Scores range from 1-100, with higher scores indicating better functioning. The scale is divided into 10-point ranges representing different levels of functioning.

Who can use the GAF?

Adults and adolescents, particularly useful in clinical and research settings.

What are the strengths of the GAF?

Provides overall assessment of functioning, useful for treatment planning and outcome measurement, widely recognized in clinical practice.

What are the limitations of the GAF?

Can be subjective, combines different domains into single score, limited reliability across different raters, removed from DSM-5.