Psychological assessments involve the evaluation of behavior and its correlated variables. Psychologists or other professionals trained in psychological assessment perform this evaluation through tests, inventories, interviews, observations or clinical judgments.
Some cognitive tests, like math problems, only measure their product; other measures take into account both how people approach problems (i.e., personality traits) as well as the process by which they solve them (i.e., their process). Measures like the MMPI-2 provide insight into our thoughts, emotions and attitudes which make up personality.
Tests
Psychologists typically employ “norm-referenced” tests or informal questionnaires and surveys depending on what needs assessing. Such assessments may measure aptitude in certain fields, cognitive abilities such as memory or spatial recognition and even personality traits such as introversion.
Psychologists are trained to administer and interpret standardized tests, but these must not be read alone as accurate diagnoses require taking into account multiple measurable criteria, including clinical experience, client history, physical health issues and sociocultural environments.
Psychological tests can be challenging and it is essential to remember that there is no way you can prepare for them; answers do not have right or wrong answers. Some tests use projective techniques such as inkblots or pictures presented to subjects for them to describe to reveal underlying traits and motivations; these require additional training beyond traditional psychology education.
Assessments
Psychological assessments are techniques psychologists use to collect and interpret data on a client’s mental health. Such assessments might include norm-referenced psychological tests, informal tests and surveys, medical records, school or work performance reports, observational data or interview records.
Intelligence and achievement tests that measure cognitive abilities relative to other people (also referred to as an “IQ”) can also provide useful measures. Other psychological evaluation measures may include personality assessments which evaluate traits such as extraversion, agreeableness and conscientiousness.
Psychologists also conduct neuropsychological assessments, or neuropsychometric testing, in order to examine more detailed aspects of brain functioning such as memory, emotional and social skills, motor coordination and strength. Neuropsychological evaluations may be done when an individual is being assessed for neurological disease or psychiatric illness which affects cognitive ability; usually in medical-based settings or residential facilities.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing psychological disorders is essential in establishing effective treatments. When symptoms tend to cluster together and progress in an identifiable manner, this may qualify as a syndrome; similarly to how cancer patients are grouped into categories based on symptoms and characteristics.
Psychologists utilize information gleaned from tests, interviews and collateral sources to make diagnoses and recommend treatments; this process is known as clinical formulation or case conceptualization.
Psychologists can utilize the results of diagnostic assessments to diagnose likely mental health conditions, identify emotional factors associated with medical complaints or assess an individual’s eligibility to undergo surgical procedures. Psychologists will also use assessments to better understand your unique personality and behaviors – what influences them and what exacerbates them – so as to better evaluate your strengths and weaknesses as well as select suitable therapy techniques for you.
Treatment
No matter the source of mental health challenges – whether a seizure disorder, head injury or dementia are the source – there are treatment options available. Whether the issue lies within neurology (such as seizure disorder or head injury ) or psychology (schizophrenia or major depressive disorder ) Psychotherapy or talk therapy is an increasingly popular form of treatment that teaches individuals coping skills and how to identify symptoms associated with their disorder. Medication may also provide aid for certain ailments. Mood-stabilizing medications are used to treat bipolar disorder, which causes drastic fluctuations in mood and energy levels, while antidepressants may help with depression. Antipsychotic drugs may also help treat schizophrenia which results in abnormal interpretations of reality leading to hallucinations or suicidal thoughts.
Psychologists use tests and assessments to make diagnoses and formulate treatment plans for their patients. Psychologists offer evaluations for children and adults alike; school systems often seek their assistance when testing children with learning disabilities such as intelligence testing or behavioral concerns.
