Assessment, Interview, and Behavior Rating Scales

Abstract

Abstract The assessment process in developmental neuropsychiatry requires a comprehensive evaluation of the individual child and their family. Three approaches are involved: (a) clinical assessment, which includes current and past family history, individual and family clinical interviews, and mental status examination of the child; (b) semistructured and structured interviews, questionnaires, behavior checklists, and rating scales; and (c) standardized tests, including psychological and neurological examinations. Background knowledge in normal child development, child psychopathology, diagnostic classification, and the specific tests used is a prerequisite. In dealing with developmental psychopathology, knowledge of the specific syndromes and their natural history is essential. This chapter discusses the rationale for the clinical interview, procedures involved in psychiatric interviewing, the psychiatric history, the psychiatric examination, behavior rating scales and checklists, the clinical case formulation, treatment planning, and prognosis.