Abstract

IBANEZ, Carmelo  and  ECHEBURUA, Enrique. Role and limitations of prognosis in clinical diagnosis in the field of clinical psychology. Clínica y Salud [online]. 2015, vol.26, n.1, pp.17-22. ISSN 2174-0550.  https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.clysa.2014.10.008.

The prognosis, along with diagnosis and treatment, is one of the strongest pillars of clinical psychology. Among the first questions often asked when a person is diagnosed with a mental disorder is whether this disorder can be treated successfully, the likely course, and the chances of recovery. This paper poses the need and clinical utility of making predictions about prognosis, as well as its empirical support. The purpose of this study was to describe the relevant variables for the accuracy of prognostic judgments in the day-to-day practice of clinical psychology and to point out the steps to be taken in formulating the prognosis. Finally, the possible biases of clinical psychologists are considered in order to minimize and, insofar as possible, to correct them. Suggestions for future research are outlined.

Keywords : Diagnosis; Prognosis; Treatment; Risk factors; Clinical judgment and decision-making.

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