Introductory texts on psychological testing and evaluation historically
are not in short supply. Typically, however, such texts have been
relatively superficial in their discussion of clinical material and have
focused primarily on the theoretical and psychometric properties of
indi- vidual tests. More practical, clinically relevant presentations of
psychological instruments have been confined to individual volumes with
advanced and often very technical information geared to the more
sophisticated user. Professors in introductory graduate courses are
often forced to adopt several advanced texts to cover the material, at
the same time helping students wade through unnecessary technical
information in order to provide a basic working knowl- edge of each
test. Understanding Psychological Assessment is an attempt to address
these concerns. It brings together into a single volume a broad sampling
of the most respected instruments in the psychologist's armamentarium
along with promising new tests of cognitive, vocational, and personality
functioning. Additionally, it presents the most updated versions of
these tests, all in a practical, clearly written format that covers the
development, psychometrics, administra- tive considerations, and
interpretive hypotheses for each instrument. Clinical case studies allow
the reader to apply the interpretive guidelines to real clinical data,
thereby reinforcing basic understanding of the instrument and helping to
insure that both the student and practi- tioner can actually begin to
use the test. Understanding Psychological Assessment includes cognitive
and personality tests for adults, children, and adolescents, as well as
chapters on the theory of psychological measurement and integrated
report writing.
