Infant, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatric Assessment is a comprehensive clinical evaluation process that enables a holistic examination of emotional, behavioral, and cognitive difficulties that may arise during development. This assessment is conducted using methods appropriate to the child’s age and developmental level.
During the assessment process, the child’s developmental history, family relationships, school adjustment, social skills, and behavioral patterns are examined in detail. When necessary, standardized scales, clinical observation, play-based assessment, and teacher reports may also be included.
In infants and young children, evaluation is primarily based on parental observations and developmental milestones, whereas in school-age children and adolescents, individual clinical interviews play a central role. The aim is to accurately understand the child’s difficulties and identify underlying contributing factors.
Following psychiatric assessment, an appropriate diagnostic formulation is established and an individualized treatment plan is developed. This plan may include psychotherapy, family sessions, collaboration with schools, and, when necessary, pharmacological treatment. Early and accurate assessment is critical for healthy development.
Dr Mehmet Çolak, SpecialistChild and Adolescent Psychiatrist