Misdiagnosis in Child Development

Misdiagnosis in child development is a growing concern among parents and professionals in Phnom Penh. At first glance, a child’s behavior might seem like stubbornness, laziness, or simply a phase. But what happens when an underlying developmental condition is misread or overlooked? The consequences can affect a child’s learning, emotional health, and even future opportunities. In Phnom Penh, where access to quality assessments and early intervention is improving, it’s more important than ever to get it right the first time.

Why Misdiagnosis Happens

There are several reasons a child may be misdiagnosed. Some behaviors and symptoms overlap across different developmental conditions. For example, a child with ADHD may show signs of impulsivity, poor attention, or hyperactivity—but so might a child with autism, sensory processing challenges, or even trauma.

In Cambodia, limited access to specialists and standardized testing can result in inaccurate or incomplete diagnoses. Well-meaning teachers or doctors may rely on surface-level observations, leading to a quick label that doesn’t reflect the whole child.

Example: A child might be misdiagnosed with ADHD when the real issue is a speech and language delay that causes frustration and acting out. Without accurate diagnosis, the child misses the speech therapy they actually need and is instead put on behavior-modification programs that don’t address the root cause.

The Risks of Misdiagnosis

Misdiagnosing a child can delay the right intervention—and the longer a child goes without appropriate support, the harder it is to catch up later. It can also cause:

• Unnecessary stress for families who don’t understand why “treatments” aren’t working.

• Emotional harm to children who may internalize feelings of failure or shame.

• Wasted time and resources, especially in Phnom Penh where therapy services are limited and costly.

Even more concerning is the long-term impact: A misdiagnosed child may enter school without an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) tailored to their needs, struggle academically, and experience low self-esteem or mental health issues in adolescence.

Commonly Misdiagnosed Conditions

Some of the most frequently misdiagnosed developmental issues include:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Often mistaken for behavioral issues or misread as anxiety.

• ADHD: Overdiagnosed when a child is simply experiencing sensory overload or lacks routine.

• Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): Frequently overlooked or attributed to “bad behavior.”

• Speech and Language Delays: Sometimes assumed to be defiance or a lack of intelligence.

Each of these requires a different type of intervention. That’s why high-quality developmental assessments are critical.

The Importance of Comprehensive Assessments

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we emphasize thorough, individualized developmental assessments that go beyond checklists and surface behaviors. Our team uses standardized tools combined with clinical expertise to provide clear, accurate insights into your child’s needs.

Our developmental assessments help parents and educators understand:

• Whether a child’s delay is typical or cause for concern.

• What types of support (speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy) are most appropriate.

• How to build a tailored intervention plan that grows with the child.

Unlike general screenings or casual observations, these professional evaluations offer a deeper understanding of cognitive, emotional, sensory, and communication development.

What Parents in Phnom Penh Can Do

If you suspect your child has been misdiagnosed—or if you’re unsure about a diagnosis—they received, here’s what you can do:

1. Seek a second opinion. Preferably from a multi-disciplinary team like the one at OrbRom Center.

2. Track your child’s behavior. Patterns, triggers, and progress notes can help professionals refine their understanding.

3. Ask about formal assessments. Don’t rely on informal observations from teachers or pediatricians alone.

4. Trust your instincts. You know your child better than anyone. If something feels off, investigate further.

Remember, a diagnosis isn’t a label—it’s a tool to help your child get the support they deserve.

Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters in Cambodia

In Phnom Penh’s rapidly developing educational and healthcare landscape, early and accurate diagnosis is key to unlocking a child’s full potential. With increased awareness and access to proper assessments, we can reduce misdiagnosis and ensure that more children receive the services that truly meet their developmental needs.

At OrbRom Center, we’re committed to supporting families through this journey. Whether your child is showing signs of a delay or you’re concerned about a previous diagnosis, our professional team is here to help.

Explore our developmental assessments and learn how we can provide clarity, confidence, and a path forward.