Screening tools for detection of delays or developmental disorders: a systematic review of the literature

The goal of this article is to analyze the quality and applicability screening instruments aimed at detecting developmental delays or disorders. A systematic review of the scientific literature published during the last 25 years (1990-2014) retrieved from different databases is carried out. The study is limited to detection systems based on questionnaires, tests or observation of children`s behavior. The analyzed systems are rated on a scale of quality built “ad hoc”. The results show a high variability of tools and detection systems, many of which are research questionnaires, while others are diagnostic tools used for screening purposes. They can be classified in two large groups of instruments: 1), the ones based on developmental milestones whose temporary failure can mean a delay in the development and 2), those who, assuming the first principle, have identified the milestones that can be precursors of developmental disorders. In the conclusions, recommendations are offered regarding the validation of screening systems in Spain and for the construction of new ones