The APA Thesaurus offers the following definition: Analysis, evaluation or prediction of disordered or abnormal behavior, symptoms, or other aspects of psychological functioning, includes assessing the appropriateness of a particular treatment and the degree or likelihood of clinical improvement.
Preconceived definition, to form a conception or opinion of beforehand, as before seeing evidence or as a result of previously held prejudice. See more. Dictionary.com
The definition of a pretense is a false impression, a false claim or an attempt to make a falsehood appear true. 1  An example of a pretense is when you pretend to be friends with someone you don't like.  An example of a pretense is when you claim to be an expert in something you aren't.