In preschool mental health assessment, what is the proper sequence involving screening and follow-up evaluation?

• A. A screening identifies potential disorders, followed by a complete evaluation that diagnoses.
• B. Screening directly provides a diagnosis.
• C. No evaluation is needed after screening.
• D. Screening replaces ongoing assessment.

Answer: (A)

Screening is used to quickly flag children who may have concerns, while a follow-up evaluation provides the in-depth information needed to make a diagnosis. In preschool mental health, the process starts with a broad screening that identifies potential issues across settings and relies on quick checks or questionnaires. If the screening indicates possible concerns, a complete evaluation follows. That evaluation gathers detailed information from multiple sources—observations, caregiver and teacher interviews, standardized assessments, and developmental history—to determine whether diagnostic criteria are met and to establish an accurate diagnosis and plan.

The other options don’t fit because screening alone does not yield a diagnosis, and a screening result typically prompts a thorough evaluation rather than replacing ongoing assessment or serving as a substitute for it.