Psychiatric Observational Assessment of Young Children

Abstract

Psychiatric assessment of young children differs from that of older children and adolescents. It requires flexibility and strong observational skills, an understanding of the child's caregiver relationships and the environment from a developmental perspective, as well as critical cultural and social considerations. This article outlines practical aspects for structuring the evaluation and the physical setting. It provides a brief overview of clinical tools that may be useful in providing a comprehensive assessment.

Keywords: Infant and toddler mental status examination; Observational assessment; Psychiatric evaluation of young children.