Update on Third Party Observers in Neuropsychological Evaluation: An Interorganizational Position Paper

Area of Science:

• Neuropsychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Legal Medicine

Background:

• Major professional organizations in neuropsychology have historically opposed third-party observers (TPO).
• Recent advancements in telemedicine and evolving legal contexts necessitate an updated consensus on TPO.
• TPO practices raise concerns regarding ethical standards and professional conduct in neuropsychological assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To confirm and update the unified position of leading neuropsychology organizations regarding TPO.
• To establish consensus on the implications of TPO in neuropsychological evaluations, particularly in medicolegal contexts.
• To address the impact of various TPO modalities (in-person, recorded, electronic) on assessment integrity.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted.
• The review encompassed studies on TPO effects, ethical guidelines, professional statements, and test publisher policies.
• Telemedicine developments relevant to TPO were also considered.

Main Results:

• Third-party observation negatively impacts cognitive functions assessed in forensic and medicolegal evaluations.
• TPO, in any form, threatens the validity and reliability of neuropsychological assessment results.
• TPO violates established test security guidelines, ethical principles, and professional standards.

Conclusions:

• The field of neuropsychology maintains a strong opposition to TPO in medicolegal and forensic evaluations.
• TPO is viewed as a tactic to impede the neuropsychologist's ability to conduct assessments and report findings.
• Maintaining the integrity of neuropsychological evaluations requires vigilance against TPO practices.