Definitions of projective tests are critiqued. A distinction is made between projective tests and projective techniques. The unique feature of the latter is its scoring process: response categories are intensionally defined and comprise infinite sets of responses. A continuity from psychometric to projective tests is argued. Statistical…

The measurement of psychological states requires an entirely different technology from the classical personality inventory assessments of psychological traits. Differences in the requirements of state v trait measurement are discussed. Problems of naming, labelling, describing, defining, and interpretation are discussed in relation to…

Discussion of computer-assisted psychological evaluation focuses on its use as legal evidence. Topics discussed include legal criteria for expertise; clinical psychology and standards for expertise; factors relating to reliability and validity, including the proper use of data; computerized test administration; computer-based test interpretation;…

First- and second-round commentaries on an article by L. Guttman are presented. The following authors responded, with two articles each: (1) E. E. Roskam and J. Ellis; (2) P. H. Schonemann; (3) A. R. Jensen; (4) J. C. Loehlin; and (5) J.-E. Gustafsson. (SLD)

This paper reviews literature on evaluating allegations of child sexual abuse, to determine whether there are systematic and significant differences on psychological tests between sexually abused and nonabused children, and whether these differences are a direct result of sexual abuse or a result of other coexisting factors that might cause…

Clinical evaluations of child molesters include a clinical interview and psychological testing, and sometimes phallometric assessment and polygraphy. The information gathered explains the situational antecedents and offender characteristics that led to the sexual victimization and the amount of risk an individual presents. (JDD)

Studies 248 adolescents who had been in a Serious Offender Program to examine the relative predictiveness of: a common risk assessment tool; a battery of psychological tests; and a combination of demographic and theoretical factors. Regression procedures indicate that the following are significant predictors: prior commitment; male; gang members;…

Reviews the results of four studies included in this issue of "School Psychology Quarterly" which found all four cognitive profile reports lacking reliability, validity, or diagnostic utility. Argues that ipsative methods are inferior to normative methods in cognitive assessment. Recommends that psychologists eschew the application of…

The classification of intelligence has been a prime interest to many for over three-quarters of a century. The Wechsler scales of intelligence and the development of factor analysis have both played major roles in the shaping of psychometric thought. An examination of this joint history by means of a review of the factor analytic studies of the…

This discussion of the design of computerized psychological assessment or testing instruments stresses the importance of the well-designed computer-user interface. The principles underlying the three main functional elements of computer-user dialogue--data entry, data display, and sequential control--are discussed, and basic guidelines derived…

The paper reviews some of the research literature relating to self concept and deafness. In summarizing the relevant research, attention was given to the types of questions to which researchers have sought answers, the theoretical orientations which have guided investigations, and the kinds of methodological problems which have characterized…

The measurement of mental functioning is problematic, especially when Blacks are being assessed. Eurocentric paradigms and expectations are being used to assess Africentric psychology and behavior. Traditional psychometric instruments attempt to reaffirm a belief in the superiority of European culture. Scholars must search for universals in mental…

Presents the second of a two-part state-of-the-art review concerning current trends in mental health computing, with special clinical applications in automated psychological testing, computer interviews, computerized diagnosis, clinical consultation, computer-aided instruction, computerized treatment intervention, and user acceptance. (Author/ABB)

This article criticizes the generally held assumption that psychological test scores are trait measures. Reasons for the continuing belief in this fallacy, as well as the social consequences of its general acceptance, are discussed. Suggestions for avoiding the test-trait fallacy are made. (EB)

Outlines the various psychological dimensions associated with preschool children who are at risk for language/learning disorders. Emphasizes the utilization of standard psychological tests, but also discusses clinical nonstandard procedures as adjuncts to the traditional measures. (FL)