Discusses the following problems in standardized psychiatric assessment in developing countries: lack of trained manpower, lack of research facilities, transcultural aspects of concepts, and wording originally elaborated by Western psychiatrists. Certain inherent problems in using psychiatric assessment scales such as the Hamilton Depression Scale and the Present State Examination, which were originally developed in European settings, are described. The most serious drawback of using imported instruments developed in another culture is that the range of psychopathology is closely related to the needs of original settings. It is concluded that while it is important to encourage the development of indigenous instruments for specific needs, universal instruments must be developed that are essential for international collaborative work.