Assessment and Diagnosis of Conduct Disorder

Abstract

Assessment and diagnosis of mental disorders has become standard practice in the counseling profession. In this article, the authors examine problems and solutions associated with accurate assessment and diagnosis of conduct disorder. Problems of conduct disorder assessment and diagnosis include (a) client deceitfulness, (b) parent and teacher misinformation, (c) counselor countertransference, (d) diagnostic comorbidity, and (e) confounding cultural and situational circumstances. Counselors seeking to accurately diagnose conduct disorder should adhere to basic assessment principles; use multi-method, multi-rater, multisetting approaches; closely review differential explanations and diagnoses; and regularly obtain peer consultation.

Evidence-based assessment of conduct disorder: Current considerations and preparation for DSM-5.

“…Because of these issues, as well as the covert nature of many conduct problems, child/adolescent informants can provide critical information as to the presence of conduct problems, their antecedents, and contextual influences. However, one clear issue in the assessment of CD is the difficulty in gaining accurate information from child informants, especially with individuals who are engaging delinquent activities (Sommers-Flanagan & Sommers-Flanagan, 1998). Child and adolescent informants may minimize or altogether deny such behaviors (David & Kistner, 2000).…”

Toward Accountability in the Use of the Self‐Esteem Construct

“…Counselors can be expected to use appropriate methods of assessment so that their decisions are sound and interventions are more likely to fit the needs of their clients (Ridley, Li, & Hill, 1998). Clearly, diagnosis is central to professional communication and treatment planning in general (Sommers-Flanagan & Sommers-Flanagan, 1998). Counselors cannot determine the best treatment techniques unless they diagnose effectively (Hohenshil, 1995).…”