GAF score
Also written as: GAF — Global Assessment of Functioning
Numeric rating from 1-100 measuring an individual's psychological, social, and occupational functioning.
Full Definition
The Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) score is a clinician-rated scale that measures overall psychological, social, and occupational functioning on a hypothetical continuum of mental health illness. Scores range from 1 (persistent danger or inability to function) to 100 (superior functioning). While removed from DSM-5, GAF scores are still used in some clinical settings and legal contexts for disability determinations. The score considers symptom severity and functional impairment, with higher scores indicating better functioning and lower scores indicating severe symptoms or impairment.
Usage
Usage note: Note that GAF was removed from DSM-5; indicate current vs. historical use.
In Context
- "The patient's GAF score of 45 indicates serious symptoms with major impairment in functioning." — Psychiatric evaluation report
- "GAF scores should be documented at admission and discharge to measure treatment outcomes." — Clinical documentation guidelines