Theoretical Study on the Psychological Assessment of Children and Adolescents: A Narrative Review of the Literature

This article focuses on the theoretical foundation of the adaptation study for the Portuguese population of the psychological test Sistema de Evaluacion de Ninos y Adolescentes (SENA). The early identification of mental health problems through psychological assessment of children and adolescents has been recognized as a benefit in the implementation of prevention and intervention strategies that help their social and emotional development. The methodology applied was supported by the guidelines for a narrative review. Relevant perspectives on psychological assessment and international guidelines in the field of mental health are presented. Based on the review, it is suggested that the psychological assessment of children and adolescents has the following main benefits: (1) it contributes to the promotion of mental health and prevention of mental disorders; (2) increases awareness of mental disorders; (3) prevents the worsening of mental problems; and (4) provides specific mechanisms that facilitate their emotional and behavioral management, through prevention programs.