This article sets forth a multiaxial system for cataloging individuals
who manifest destructive behavior toward themselves, others, or property.
An initial codification to describe the characteristics of the destructive
behavior of the individual is presented, followed by a description of a
quaternary axial system which catalogs in a clinically relevant manner,
individuals engaging in destructive behavior. The four axes presented and
developed are Axis A--a medical diagnosis axis, Axis B--an axis of
psychological correlates, Axis C--an axis of biological correlates, and
Axis D--an axis of moral/cultural correlates. This nosology is proposed in
order to standardize the coding of human destructive behavior. It is
intended to be used by members of the clinical and research communities in
order to compare patient types and their relationship to treatment
interventions.Abstract Teaser