Mastering Modern Psychological Testing: Theory and Methods

This book provides a comprehensive introduction to psychological assessment, covering areas such as neuropsychological assessment, forensic settings, and cultural bias in testing. It emphasizes the foundational core of knowledge about tests, measurement, and assessment constructs, issues, and quantitative tools.

Format: Hardback
Length: 710 pages
Publication date: 14 May 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book offers a thorough introduction to psychological assessment, delving into areas that are often overlooked in existing test and measurement texts. It begins by establishing the foundational vocabulary and mathematics essential for understanding the field. Throughout, numerous examples are provided, drawn from tests that the authors have either written or contributed to developing, showcasing their deep expertise and familiarity with the challenges encountered in test development, usage, and interpretation.

After introducing the basic principles of psychometrics, the book explores various approaches to measuring different psychological constructs, such as memory, language, and executive function. Special attention is given to the complex issue of cultural bias in testing, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive assessment methods. Examples of existing tests are presented throughout, serving as a reference for readers. However, this book's primary purpose is not to prepare students to administer, score, and interpret specific psychological tests. Rather, it aims to provide a solid foundation of knowledge about tests, measurement, and assessment constructs, issues, and quantitative tools.

The book explains what constitutes a psychological test, detailing the various components and stages involved in their development. It explores the principles of test construction, validity, reliability, and bias, emphasizing the importance of rigorous research and evaluation methods. The book also discusses how tests are best used in different contexts, such as clinical settings, educational institutions, and the workplace. It provides guidance on interpreting test results, including the use of statistical techniques and the interpretation of scores in relation to clinical or practical concerns.

In addition to covering traditional areas of testing, the book explores emerging trends and innovations in psychological assessment. It discusses the use of technology, such as computer-based testing and virtual reality, as tools for assessment and intervention. It also explores the role of big data and machine learning in psychological assessment, highlighting their potential for analyzing large datasets and providing insights into individual differences and patterns of behavior.

Furthermore, the book addresses applications of psychological testing to issues in the courts. It discusses the use of psychological assessments in legal cases, such as custody evaluations, criminal profiling, and witness testimony. It explores the ethical considerations and legal standards that govern the use of psychological testing in the legal system, and it provides guidance on how test authors and publishers design and research tests to address the difficult and demanding issues of cultural differences in test performance and interpretation.

Overall, this book serves as a valuable resource for students, professionals, and researchers interested in psychological assessment. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field, covering a wide range of topics and presenting practical insights and examples to enhance understanding and application.

Weight: 1262g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030594541
Edition number: 2nd ed. 2021