Which term defines an assessment error where no pathology is noted when it is actually present?

The term that defines an assessment error where no pathology is noted when it is actually present is a false negative. A false negative occurs when a test or assessment fails to identify a condition that is actually present, leading to the incorrect conclusion that there is no issue. This type of error can be particularly problematic because it may cause delays in treatment or intervention for the individual affected, as their actual condition goes unrecognized.

In the context of medical and psychological assessments, false negatives underscore the importance of thorough evaluations and possibly corroborative assessments to ensure that all conditions are accurately identified and addressed. This understanding helps practitioners make informed decisions and improve patient outcomes through appropriate referrals or target therapies. The other terms describe different outcomes: true positives indicate correct identification of a condition, true negatives indicate correct identification of absence of a condition, and false positives indicate the incorrect identification of a condition when none exists.