Psychometric testing can be part of a psychological assessment, particularly focusing on areas such as cognitive functioning, diagnosis, personality, or to assist in answering specific referral questions. Testing is a formal process involving administration of stimulus materials to a client by a psychologist in accordance with standard procedures. Clients must complete testing in a controlled setting, either under observation or in interaction with the psychologist.

Psychological tests most frequently involve responding ‘true’ or ‘false’ to questions by using a pencil to fill in a bubble on an answer sheet. Sometimes questions ask the client to rate items on a number scale or to fill in a blank. Tests may involve the psychologist presenting stimuli that call for the client to respond by manipulating (eg, block puzzles or drawing) or by verbalising (eg, providing information or explanation). Depending upon the purposes and instruments selected, testing may take as little as 10 minutes or as long as several hours for the client to complete.

Once test materials have been administered, they are scored and profiled by the psychologist. The psychologist then interprets the results of the test in the context of the overall psychological assessment and information about the client. In most circumstances results are included in a written report, and an informing interview is provided by the psychologist to the client to help explain the results.

You are encouraged to discuss any questions about psychometric testing with Dr Zuessman.