Lesson 4 - Assessment and the DSM-V

Observation and Assessment

Psychologists assess the behaviour of others either by direct observation or by listening to an accounting of previous behaviour. They are careful to make note of antecedents (previous circumstances) that may relate to the problem. They look for factors, triggers, or events that were there when the problem behaviour started. They look at where and when the problem occurs and with whom the problem occurs. For example, a child may have behavioural problems at home but not at school. Psychologists may need to observe the child in both locations over a period of time. Psychologists would note the differences in the child’s behaviour in each situation, as well as how the child is being treated by the people in each environment. They may even wonder how the child feels in each situation – something not necessarily observed easily!