Testing (Ch. 5) Flashcards
What is a test?
A test is a systematic procedure for observing and describing a person’s behavior in a standard situation.
What are the three approaches to test construction?
Analytical approach (deductive, content validity by creating tests that tap into constructs), Empirical approach (Dustbowl empiricism, MMPI, Control group vs. measured group), and sequential system approach (start with theory and then modify with empirical approach).
What are tests characterized in terms of?
They are characterized in terms of how they have been developed, what they measure, and their format.
What are some aspects that can be tested for?
Intellectual functioning, personality or psychological functioning, attitudes, interests, preferences and values, and ability.
What is the definition of intelligence?
The tendency to take and maintain a definite direction; the capacity to make adaptations for the purpose of attaining a desired end; and the power of autocriticism. The aggregate or global capacity of the individual to act purposefully, to think rationally and to deal effectively with their environment.
What type of tests did Binet develop?
Intelligence tests, including IQ tests.
What were the Wechsler Scales?
They were originally intelligence tests for military personnel but then were developed for adults. The intelligence tests start easy and progressively get harder.
What does MMPI stand for and what is it?
The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2; MMPI-A) is a written psychological assessment, or test, used to diagnose mental disorders.
What were some criticisms of the MMPI?
It was outdated and had an unrepresentative standardization sample, it had sexist and outdated items, included limited coverage of some mental disorders, clinical vs. content scales.
What is the Rorschach Inkblot Test?
It is a type of projective test used in psychoanalysis, in which a standard set of symmetrical ink blots of different shapes and colors is presented one by one to the subject, who is asked to describe what they suggest or resemble.
