[Psychological self-assessment scales in expert investigations]

Psychological self-assessment scales are frequently used in expert investigations of psychological disorders. At the same time the validity of these scales in this particular area of use has scarcely been reviewed. The criterion validity of selected self-assessment scales is examined.

A total of 159 subjects participated in the study. Self-assessment scales to determine trait character and state variables were used (FIP-R, SVF, STAI, BDI, B-L, IES-R, FDS). Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms determined in accordance with DSM-IV-TR and the clinically determined psychopathological findings were the external criteria.

The study showed that two subscales of the SVF and the age of the test subjects represent significant predictors for the diagnosis of PTSD supported by DSM-IV-TR. One FPI-R and one SVF subscale have a significant relationship to the psychopathological findings. Of the state variables which were used only BDI displayed a significant relationship to the psychopathological findings.

Some of the reviewed trait variables also have sufficient criterion validity for expert assessments. Self-appraisal scales which cover current psychopathological complaints should only be evaluated with reservations.