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
precept - a doctrine that is taught; the teachings of religion; he believed all the Christian precepts. commandment, teaching. doctrine, ism, philosophical system, philosophy, school of thought - a belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school.