The challenge of making a psychiatric diagnosis in children

Abstract

Psychiatric diagnosis in childhood is still a controversial issue in
Clinical Psychology. Developmental issues typical of childhood, fear of stigmatization, contextual variables and questionable validation of mental disorders in childhood justify the resistance and worry of professionals about making a psychiatric diagnosis. On the other hand, there is a consensus about the need for systematic evaluation of children, because it summarizes and orders clinical observations, creates a body of international research in a common language and guides universal strategies of intervention. Therefore, the psychiatric diagnoses made by experienced professionals through exhaustive investigation of the psychosocial condition of children can bring considerable improvement to their health and well-being. The problems associated with the psychiatric diagnosis justify the caution that one should have, but its benefits show the usefulness of its application. 

Key words: diagnosis, psychiatry, child.