Psychological assessment in the clinical context

The domains that need to be considered in any psychological assessment are wide. Given the well-established link between developmental, cognitive or learning difficulties and emotional and behavioural problems, most assessments should consider both development and behaviour, alongside the child's emotional well-being. The family, home and school environment need to be taken into account. Psychological assessment will often include some direct assessment of the child's functioning, observations of the child within the assessment setting, interviews with parents and, where appropriate, relevant information from school. Both formal and informal measurement and testing may be required. A 'scientist practitioner' model whereby a theory-driven assessment plays a role in formulating and then systematically testing hypotheses about a child's difficulties should be adopted. This provides a psychological framework for conceptualising the child or young person's difficulties that, in turn, should underpin approaches to intervention and remediation.