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Toward more clinically relevant assessment research.
1School of Psychology, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Teaneck, NJ 07666, USA. mcgrath@alpha.fdu.edu
Journal of Personality Assessment
|November 6, 2001
Summary
This study reviewed assessment research, finding a gap in evaluating clinical utility alongside validity. More research is needed on interpretation and stakeholder reactions to improve psychological assessment relevance.
Area of Science:
- Psychological assessment
- Research methodology
- Clinical psychology
Background:
- Clinical assessment research often prioritizes validity over utility.
- There is a need to bridge the gap between psychometric properties and real-world application.
- Understanding stakeholder perspectives is crucial for effective assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To encourage clinically relevant assessment research.
- To differentiate research design for validity versus utility.
- To provide recommendations for integrating validity and utility in research.
Main Methods:
- Informal methodological review of 108 articles from 3 major assessment journals (Sept 1998-Aug 1999).
- Analysis focused on research design elements relevant to validity and utility.
- Examination of how studies addressed interpretation and stakeholder reactions.
Main Results:
- Published studies showed sensitivity to some utility aspects but lacked focus on others.
- None of the reviewed articles addressed the interpretation process in clinical settings.
- Stakeholder reactions to assessment were not addressed in the analyzed research.
Conclusions:
- Assessment research must better integrate validity and utility considerations.
- Future research should explore factors influencing positive impressions of psychological assessment.
- Enhancing clinical relevance requires attention to interpretation and stakeholder engagement.