Frustration as a Diagnostic Key: A Conceptual Matrix to Distinguish Emotional and Neurodivergent Origins in Clinical Practice

This article proposes a screening tool based on the analysis of frustration as an integrative expression of emotional and neurofunctional dimensions. The matrix considers four main axes: early emotional experiences (wounded inner child), ADHD (executive and emotional dysregulation), giftedness (psychic intensity and internal demand), and autism spectrum traits (sensory structure and relational rigidity). The instrument uses common frustration scenarios with mapped responses for each profile, evaluated on a scale from 0 to 3. The tool enables the identification of the predominant origin of frustration and contributes to clinical listening, self-awareness, and therapeutic planning. The pilot application was conducted with an adult participant whose responses indicated a pattern compatible with traits of ADHD, giftedness, and significant emotional experiences in childhood. This is a qualitative and exploratory study, aimed at future empirical validation. The matrix is presented as a complementary contribution to clinical practice in therapeutic and educational contexts.