The psychological research

Nowadays it is increasingly part of an application procedure. The psychological research. Are you suitable for that job? Why are you not functioning properly or just a general examination of who you are? With a psychological examination you will get answers to all these questions. But how exactly does that work, what can I expect, and can I prepare?

  • Why a psychological examination?
  • The psychological research
  • Test day
  • Interview
  • Intelligence test
  • Questionnaires
  • Simulation
  • Preparation for a psychological examination
  • The result
  • Right of access

 

Why a psychological examination?

There are several reasons to participate in a psychological study. For study and career choice, job application or change of position. A psychological examination examines whether the applicant is suitable for the job in question. It can also provide an explanation to questions such as why someone does not function properly, or what type of therapy suits someone best.

The psychological research

A psychological examination is a way to collect a lot of information about a person. For this purpose, a number of research methods have been developed in psychology that map the behavior, thought process and emotional functioning of the participant. Commonly used instruments are a personality test, aptitude test and an interest questionnaire. These tests are developed with great care and must meet strict quality requirements before they can be used.

The psychological examination depends on the question with which the participant was referred. This may be for a general impression or to see whether the participant has certain skills/characteristics. Each research program is different and will include different tests or questionnaires. So psychological research doesn’t actually exist.

Test day

A test day often lasts a whole day and is usually administered by a qualified psychological assistant. Below are a few components that are often part of a psychological examination.

Interview

The interview is the only aspect that is included in every research program. The interview is a personal conversation with the psychologist and participant. This interview may discuss life history, study and employment history, ambitions, wishes and motivation, medical history, social functioning.

Intelligence test

An intelligence test assesses the participant’s capabilities. It often concerns a number of assignments that have to be completed within a certain period of time. An intelligence test often concerns arithmetic, language and spatial insight. This test can be administered individually or in groups.

Questionnaires

Questionnaires are also almost always included as standard in the research program. There are three types of questionnaires.
1. Personality Traits2. Value and interest patterns3. Solving specific problems

Simulation

Simulation is the imitation of a certain situation. This can be through role play or performing a work task. Specific skills are tested with simulation. E.g. leading, negotiating or selling.

Preparation for a psychological examination

Make sure that you take part in a psychological examination well rested and relaxed. Reading up on psychological research gives you self-confidence. If you know what to expect, you will be much calmer about the examination. You can also contact the research agency and ask for further information about the research.

The result

After the examination, the psychologist will draw up a report. This consists of a number of profiles. These are schematic representations of the test results. The psychologist’s findings, interpretations and recommendations are also stated here. And an answer to the research question.

Right of access

You have the right to inspect the psychological report before it is sent to the client. You also have the right to stop the report being sent entirely. If you find that there are inaccuracies in the report, you can ask the psychologist to adjust or remove it.

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