Psychological tests

psychological test and Role of Nurse

1. Psychological tests By Ms Neha Bhatt 1

2. Psychological tests Psychological tests are standard measure devised to assess behaviour objectively and used by psychologist to help people make decision about their lives and understand more about themselves. 2

3. Types of Psychological tests Classification of Psychological tests based on construction and administration - Individual and group test Speed and power test Computer assisted tests Paper pencil and performance tests 3

4. Classification of psychological test Based on test of knowledge , skill and abilities psychological test has been divided into following – Achievement test – term ending exams Aptitude test – general aptitude test battery Intelligence test – stand ford binet scale Interest test – interest inventory 4

5. Classification Cont... Neuropsychological test – Wechsler adult memory scale Occupational test – McQuaig occupation test Personality test - Rorschach inkblot test Specific clinical test – Pittsburgh sleep quality index 5

6. Development of psychological test Several steps are involved in development of psychological tests . These include – Analysis of situation Tentative selection of the test items Development of standardized procedures 6

7. Development of test cont.. 4. Administration of the test to a representative group 5. Final selection of the test item – item analysis 6. Evaluation of final test 7

8. Characteristics Of Psychological Tests Standardization Objectivity Test norms Reliability Validity Carefully developed and researched psychological tests have several characteristics- 8

9. Principles of psychological tests Psychological tests should have been three components i.e. Standard , content , & procedure that make it possible for anybody to administer it anywhere anytime. Tests should have norms to compare an individual test score of a known group , who have taken the test. 9

10. Principles of psychological tests cont... Tests items are of high technical quality prepared by experts , pretested and selected on the basis of difficulty , power , relationship to a clearly defined rigid set of specifications. Directions for administering scores are precisely stated , so that procedures are standard for different users of the tests. 10

11. Principles of psychological tests cont... A test manual and other accessory materials are provided as a guide for administration , scoring , evaluating , its technical qualities and for interpreting and using the result . 11

12. Uses Of Psychological Tests To get information easily Information is scientifically tested and reliable They assist in diagnosis . Eg . Rorschach test They assist in formulation of psychopathology of disease. Eg . TAT They assist in assessing severity of disorder . Eg . Hamilton Rating scale for depression 12

13. Uses Of Psychological Tests cont.. They help in assessing general characteristics of individual . Eg personality tests These tests are also used in forensic evaluations , family court issue and criminal charges. These test assess level of functioning or disability , help direct treatment and assess treatment outcome. 13

14. Limitation Of Psychological Tests Many applicants experience anxiety. Human mind is beyond any assessment and limit , at a times one can behave complete different from original state. Negative attitude of applicant can alter the validity of test. Administration and interpretation can be done only by qualified psychologist. 14

15. Role Of A Nurse In Psychological Assessment Nurse should become familiar with many standardized tests that are available to enhance each stage of the nursing process. A nurse should have knowledge about all the psychological tests , which will help her to clarify patient’s or relative’s doubts regarding these tests. 15

16. Role Of A Nurse In Psychological Assessment cont.. These test will help in providing care and provide measurable indicators of treatment outcome. Example – if the nurse is caring for a patient with depression , it would be helpful to use depression rating scale time to time , to check the need and progress of treatment. 16

17. Role Of A Nurse In Psychological Assessment cont.. Nurse should plan all the care and treatment according to the data obtained by psychological tests . Nurse should reassure the patient about the safety of the tests and confidentiality of the observation . 17