The DC:0-5™ is the only developmentally based diagnosis and classification system for children birth to age 5. It is based on empirical evidence and findings from clinical research to enhance clinicians’ abilities to prevent, diagnose and treat mental health disorders in the early years.

The DC:0-5™ takes a relationship-based approach to include optimal consideration of the context of a child’s environment and caregivers within the assessment process. This is so important in early childhood development and why a multiaxial system is utilized, which allows for an increased emphasis on identifying the context. This system helps diagnose the disorder, not the child.