What is the predicted development of a disorder over time called?

The term that describes the predicted development of a disorder over time is prognosis. This concept is vital in the field of healthcare and rehabilitation, as it involves estimating the likely or expected course and outcome of an individual's condition based on various factors such as the nature of the disorder, the individual's health status, and treatment options available. A prognosis helps inform treatment decisions and provides the patient and their family with an understanding of what to expect over time.

Other terms mentioned have different meanings; for instance, outcome refers to the result of treatment or therapy, assessment is the process of evaluating an individual's condition or needs, and diagnostic criteria are the specific guidelines used to identify a particular disorder. Each of these terms serves a distinct role in healthcare but does not capture the ongoing expectation regarding the progression of a disorder like prognosis does.