The classification of problems in clinical child & family psychology

In clinical child and family psychology classification has three main functions. First, it permits information about particular types of child and family problems to be ordered in ways that allow for the growth of a body of expert knowledge about different types of problems. This information typically includes the accurate clinical description of a problem and the identification of factors associated with the etiology, maintenance, course and possible management plans effective in solving the problem. Such expert information constitutes the basis for sound clinical practice. Second, classification systems allow for the development of epidemiological information about the incidence and prevalence of various problems. This sort of information is particularly useful in planning services and deciding how to prioratize the allocation of sparse resources. Third, classification systems provide a language through which clinicians and researchers communicate with each other.