School psychologists have traditionally experienced difficulty in assessing children referred for special services. In order to determine if the diagnosis of emotional disturbance in South Carolina schools follows the guidelines provided by the South Carolina Department of Education publication "Procedures for the Survey, Screening, Evaluation, Placement, and Dismissal of Children Into and Out of Programs for the Handicapped," 79 public school districts were surveyed; 54 (68%) of the districts responded. Results showed that the school psychologists reportedly acquire data from the child's environment by using behavioral checklists, anecdotal records, the referral form, and documentation of previous interventions. They acquire information from the child via intelligence, achievement, and projective/personality tests. Although consistency in diagnosis was found, the validity of the projective/personality tests being using (Bender Gestalt, Draw A Person, House Tree Person) for assessing personality or emotional difficulties is questionable. Despite these problems, the diagnostic process for determination of emotional disturbance was reported to be consistent and thorough, with information and data being gathered from a number of sources. (Data concerning the school districts involved and specific responses are appended in tables.) (LLL)