'Instruments are good at eliciting information; scores are very dangerous': The perspectives of clinical professionals regarding neurodevelopmental assessment.

Researchers interviewed 17 experienced doctors and healthcare professionals in the UK about how they diagnose autism and ADHD. They found that while some diagnoses are clear-cut, professionals sometimes make decisions based on whether a diagnosis will actually help the child or young person. There were differences in opinions between different professionals and organisations about diagnosis, showing how complex these decisions can be.

This qualitative study interviewed 17 experienced UK healthcare professionals to explore their perspectives on diagnosing autism and ADHD. The research revealed that while some diagnoses are straightforward, clinicians often make diagnostic decisions on pragmatic grounds, considering whether the diagnosis will be helpful to the individual. The study identified differences of opinion between professionals and organisations, highlighting the complexity of applying neurodevelopmental diagnoses. The findings contribute to the limited but growing body of research examining clinicians' decision-making processes in neurodevelopmental assessment, providing insights into the practical realities of clinical practice.

Results suggest need for clearer diagnostic guidelines and training to reduce variability between professionals. Highlights importance of considering practical utility of diagnosis alongside clinical criteria. May inform development of more consistent diagnostic practices across services.

Sample limited to UK professionals only. Study type and detailed methodology not specified in abstract. Sample size of 17 may limit generalisability. No information provided about participant characteristics or interview methods.

Autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are common behaviourally diagnosed conditions. One of the key aspects of diagnosis is clinical judgement. Yet despite decades of research, it is only in recent times that researchers have started exploring clinicians' perspectives on diagnosing these conditions. We aimed to add to this body of knowledge by conducting interviews with 17 experienced health care professionals in the United Kingdom to hear their perspectives on diagnosing autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Clinicians reflected that for some children and young people, diagnosis is reasonably straightforward; however, in other situations, decisions are made on more pragmatic grounds (i.e. will this be helpful). We identified some differences of opinion between professionals and organisation which adds to the complexity of applying a diagnosis. We recommend several areas for future research and point to some practical and philosophical implications of the work.