The dimensional approach to diagnosis is characterized by which of the following?
a. A theoretical explanation for the underlying cause of the disorder that is assumed to be shared by all patients experiencing similar symptoms
b. Essential elements that all patients must report for the diagnosis to be assigned but allowance for specific nonessential variations as well
c. Quantification of patients' experiences using scales measuring several areas such as anxiety or depression
d. Lists of symptoms that patients must experience for the diagnosis to be assigned