Diagnostik in der Verhaltenstherapie

After an introduction, a short historical review of the development of behaviour therapy and the importance of categorical classification of mental disorders is given. We present different assessment approaches that are important in behaviour therapy. They comprise anamnesis, categorical classification, somatic differential diagnosis, psychometric methods, ratings scales, and diaries. As the core assessment strategy in cognitive behaviour therapy, functional behavioural analysis is introduced in detail, in which methods of horizontal analysis of behaviour (SORKC model proposed by Kanfer) and the vertical analysis of behaviour are explained. The importance of computer-based assessment and specific approaches of assessment within behaviour therapy for children and adolescents are presented. By way of conclusion, the prospects of possible new developments of assessment in behaviour therapy are outlined.