When you think of assessing a child, you might think of speaking with the parent or caregiver to gain important history and insight into behavior. You might think of reviewing child development records. You might think of screening for adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). And you might also think about playing with the child as a way to engage and understand them. It is not likely that just one of these methods would be sufficient.
A comprehensive understanding of a client’s presenting problem depends on the use of multiple types of assessment models. Each model gathers different information based on theoretical perspective and intent. An assessment that focuses on one area alone not only misses vital information that would be helpful in planning intervention but may encourage a biased evaluation that could lead you to inappropriate goals.
In this Discussion, you review a child case and explain how multiple assessments could help present a comprehensive, holistic view of the child and situation.
Review the Learning Resources on social work practice with children and on ecomaps.
Access the Social Work Case Studies media and navigate to Claudia. As you explore the case, consider the various assessments you would use to gain a comprehensive understanding.
Explain the importance of using multiple evidence-based tools (including quantitative, open-ended, and ecologically focused) to assess Claudia. Explain how each complements the other in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the young client’s concerns and situation. Then, describe the use of an ecomap in assessment and explain the different systems you would account for in your assessment of Claudia.
Brandell, J. R. (Ed.). (2020). Theory & practice in clinical social work (3rd ed.). Cognella.
Chapter 6, “Clinical Practice With Children” (pp. 103–122)
Park, K. K., Horn, E. M., & Kurth, J. A. (2021). Strategies to support community inclusion of young children with disabilitiesLinks to an external site.. Young Exceptional Children. https://doi.org/10.1177/10962506211028575
NICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Scales
American Academy of Pediatrics and National Institute for Children’s Health Quality. (2002). NICHQ Vanderbilt assessment scales: Used for diagnosing ADHD.Links to an external site. https://www.nichq.org/sites/default/files/resource-file/NICHQ-Vanderbilt-Assessment-Scales.pdf
Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire
Goodman, R. (2002). Strengths and difficulties questionnaire.Links to an external site. https://depts.washington.edu/dbpeds/Screening%20Tools/Strengths_and_Difficulties_Questionnaire.pdf
Behavior Assessment System for Children
Reynolds, C. R., & Kamphaus, R. W. (2015). Behavior assessment system for children 3rd edition: BASC-3.Links to an external site. https://www.pearsonassessments.com/store/usassessments/en/Store/Professional-Assessments/Behavior/Comprehensive/Behavior-Assessment-System-for-Children-%7C-Third-Edition-/p/100001402.html
Note: On this webpage, explore the “Product Details” and “Resources” tabs to understand the BASC-3 tool.