Case Formulation, Behavior Analysis, and Diagnostic Interviews

This article reviews three approaches to assessment of psychological difficulties in adults. First, we review case formulation, which includes developing a comprehensive understanding of a client's presenting problems, precipitating factors, mechanisms, and the origins of the problem. Second, we review behavior analysis and assessment, used to gather objective data about clients' behavior and how their symptoms interact with the environment to inform both diagnosis and case formulation. Finally, we discuss diagnostic interviewing, which allows clinicians to determine the presence or absence of mental health diagnoses. The strengths and limitations of these approaches and research areas are discussed.