Assessment Related to Developmental Disabilities and Psychological Disorders During Early Childhood

This chapter focuses on the identification and assessment of suspected developmental disabilities and externalizing disorders during early childhood. It begins with a literature review and general background of developmental disabilities in young children and then describes general considerations for conducting psychological evaluations in this domain. Next, three of the most common developmental disabilities [e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)] are described with respect to their presentation in young children. This is followed by an outline of general assessment guidelines and specific instruments and methods for the identification and diagnosis of these developmental disabilities. The chapter concludes with examples of young children who represent common referral concerns for case study discussion and assessment planning.