Week five:Psychological Assessment-Evaluator characteristics Flashcards
What are the key characteristics of an evaluator during the assessment process?
Flexibility, vigilance, self-awareness, positive body language, professional appearance, and awareness of impressions and expectancy effects.
Why is flexibility important for an evaluator in the assessment process?
It allows the evaluator to adapt to changes in the assessment or the child’s behavior, as children can be unpredictable.
What is the role of vigilance in the assessment process?
Being aware of both verbal and non-verbal cues from the child and others (parents, teachers) helps recognize underlying issues or emotions that might not be immediately obvious.
How does self-awareness help the evaluator during the assessment?
It ensures that the evaluator remains aware of their biases and reactions, helping maintain professionalism and ensuring an unbiased assessment.
Why is positive body language important in the assessment process?
Positive body language, such as maintaining open posture and eye contact, helps build rapport and foster trust with the child.
What should an evaluator’s appearance convey during the assessment process?
A professional appearance that establishes authority, trust, and credibility with the child and their family.
What is the importance of understanding impressions and expectancy effects?
Evaluators should be aware of how initial impressions can influence their judgment or the child’s performance, and nurture a positive evaluator-child relationship to minimize bias.
What steps should be taken in preparing for the first meeting with the child?
Study the referral question, review reports and records, research relevant literature, practice test administration, and organize materials.
Why is it important to study the referral question before the first meeting?
Understanding the reason for the assessment and the primary concerns (e.g., behavioral issues, learning difficulties) helps focus the evaluation.
What role do reports and records play in preparing for the first meeting?
Reviewing background information, such as medical and school records, helps contextualize the child’s situation and identify prior interventions.
What is the significance of practicing test administration before the first meeting?
Familiarizing yourself with the tests ensures smooth and effective administration during the assessment.
How should rapport be established with children?
Tailor your approach to the child’s developmental level, explain the process, encourage comfort, and use a friendly, reassuring tone.
What is the role of parents in establishing rapport with children?
Parents should prepare the child by explaining the assessment in advance, which helps reduce anxiety and increase cooperation.
What is the role of the evaluator in establishing rapport with parents?
Normalizing the experience, allaying apprehensions, and creating a supportive environment where parents feel comfortable sharing concerns about their child.
What is the typical order of conducting interviews in the assessment process?
First, interview the parents (without the child), then assess the child individually, and finally, interview the teachers.
What should the evaluator focus on when interviewing parents?
Gather insights on the child’s difficulties, developmental history, behavioral patterns, and the parent’s ability to implement interventions.
What are key topics to cover when interviewing children?
Use simple language to discuss emotions, social relationships, and the child’s self-concept and aspirations.
What are the goals of interviewing teachers?
Gain the teacher’s perspective on the child’s behavior in school, academic strengths and challenges, and peer interactions.
What should the interviewer focus on when interviewing teachers?
Understand the teacher’s view of the problem, reactions to the child’s behavior, and the child’s academic and social performance.
Why is a neutral, accepting attitude important during the assessment process?
It ensures the evaluator builds trust with both the child and their parents, and allows for a comprehensive understanding of the child’s needs.
What should the assessment process include?
It should incorporate observations, interviews, and testing to create a thorough understanding of the child’s needs.
