Clinical observation is an essential component of a sensitive and accurate diagnostic assessment. The Disruptive Behavior Diagnostic Observation Schedule) is a structured diagnostic tool encompassing three essential features of observation: (1) the use of challenging tasks to elicit behaviors of interest; (2) opportunities to observe behavior in multiple settings and with different people; and (3) the clinician's conscious and deliberate use of self to offer varying levels of support and better assess the child's capacities for self-regulation.