What term describes a behavioral disorder that manifests during early childhood, often prior to a formal diagnosis?

The term that accurately describes a behavioral disorder that manifests during early childhood, often prior to a formal diagnosis, is developmental disorder. Developmental disorders refer to a range of conditions that typically appear in early childhood and impact a child's development in areas such as cognitive, learning, language, or behavior. Examples include autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which often present symptoms in early childhood before a formal diagnosis can be established.

By focusing on developmental disorders, one can recognize the significance of early signs that may indicate the presence of such conditions, allowing for timely intervention and support to help the child develop essential skills and cope with challenges.