Meeting abstract

https://doi.org/10.24869/spsih.2026.212

From Diagnosis to Trajectory: A Transsyndromal and Developmental Model of Psychopathology in Youth

Tomislav Franić ; University Hospital of Split, Split, Croatia; School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, Croatia; School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia *
Mia Plenković ; School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, Croatia
Nada Gruja ; School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, Croatia
Tonći Mastelić ; University Hospital of Split, Split, Croatia
Frane Franić ; School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Jakša Vukojević ; School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Zagreb, Croatia
Youth- GEMs ; University of Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands

* Corresponding author.

Abstract

Research objectives: The psychopathology of adolescence
and early adulthood is characterized by
symptom overlap, fluctuations in clinical presentation,
and transitions between different mental
disorders across development. This dynamic poses
a challenge for traditional diagnostic systems.
Contemporary developmental models emphasize
a continuum of mental phenotypes, shared biological
and environmental mechanisms, and the importance
of understanding individual developmental
trajectories. The aim of this paper is to present
a transsyndromal approach to psychopathology
in young people and its potential for the development of prognostic models. Materials and methods:
The conceptual framework of the Youth-GEMs
project is presented, which investigates developmental
trajectories of mental health by integrating
clinical, genetic, epigenetic, and environmental
data. Emphasis is placed on developmental transitions
between psychopathological phenomena,
transsyndromal patterns of help-seeking, and the
concept of clinical staging. Statistical analysis: Longitudinal
models, multivariate analyses, and artificial
intelligence algorithms were applied to identify
developmental patterns of psychopathology and to
develop individualized prognostic models. Results:
The study is expected to identify developmental
patterns that transcend traditional diagnostic categories
and to provide a better understanding of
the links between developmental neurobiological
processes and later psychopathological outcomes.
A particular strength of this approach is early risk
detection, before the emergence of clearly defined
disorders. Conclusion: The transsyndromal approach
represents a shift away from symptom-defined
diagnoses toward a developmental and etiopathogenetic
understanding of psychopathology.
Such a model enables the development of more
precise, personalized, and prognostically oriented
psychiatry and helps bridge the traditional divide
between child and adult psychiatry.

Keywords

transsyndromal psychopathology; developmental trajectories; clinical staging; precision psychiatry; youth mental health

Hrčak ID:

352337

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/352337

Publication date:

15.6.2026.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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