Page 30 - Juvenile Practice is not Child's Play

6. The evaluation should be developmentally sensitive (i.e. the evaluation should provide qualitative

information about where the youth is in their cognitive, moral, and identify development and what areas of
growth remain). This type of information may be particularly helpful in identifying treatment options for your

client.

7. Refrain from attacking the validity or reliability of the evaluation’s findings without
consulting a mental health expert because of the technical knowledge involved.

8. Pay special attention to the diagnosis of Conduct Disorder. Conduct disorder diagnoses often coexist

with one or more other mental health disorders. You want to be sure that those other disorders have not been
overlooked.

9. It is important to get a qualified evaluator. Be sure the evaluator:
• Understands the relevant law and psychological factors at issue;

• Has not previously been involved with the child in any kind of treatment or therapeutic capacity,
including during the time the case has been pending
• Has the relevant clinical knowledge and experience, including training working with adolescents;

• Has had the appropriate training in working with youth from various cultures; and
• Has training specific to the type of evaluation being conducted.