1.
If you were writing a psychological evaluation report on a client who wore shorts and a tank top despite snowy, 20-degree weather, where would you include this observation?
Correct Answer
C. Yes, in the behavioral observations section
Explanation
Behavioral observations are a crucial part of a psychological evaluation report, as they provide insight into the client’s actions, demeanor, and presentation during the assessment. Wearing shorts and a tank top in snowy, 20-degree weather is an unusual behavior that could reflect the client’s mental state, cognitive processes, or understanding of environmental cues. Documenting such behavior in the behavioral observations section ensures that it is noted as a potential factor for further analysis. This information could be relevant to identifying underlying psychological or medical conditions and contributes to a comprehensive evaluation.
2.
Some researchers wanted to create an objective personality test to determine a person’s tendency toward cocaine addiction. What approach did they use to develop the test?
Correct Answer
A. Deductive (like the EPQ)
Explanation
In deductive test construction, researchers begin with a theory and derive specific items that are meant to test the theory’s validity. In this case, researchers created a test based on their theory of cocaine addiction, which led them to select test items that were intended to measure tendencies toward addiction. This method contrasts with inductive approaches, which involve gathering data and then forming a theory based on patterns found in the data. The deductive approach, similar to the EPQ, allows researchers to test a pre-existing hypothesis using specific, theory-driven items.
3.
According to the article "The New Science of Happiness," which of the following is NOT one of the top 4 things that bring people the greatest happiness?
Correct Answer
B. Holidays
Explanation
In "The New Science of Happiness," the focus is on the factors that contribute significantly to long-term happiness. Faith, children, and a spouse/partner are often listed as top contributors to happiness, suggesting that relationships and personal beliefs have a powerful impact on overall well-being. However, holidays, while enjoyable, do not consistently rank as one of the top factors for sustained happiness. The article suggests that lasting happiness comes more from stable, fulfilling relationships and personal growth than from occasional pleasurable experiences like holidays.
4.
According to the article "The New Science of Happiness," what is Maritn Seligman's biggest recommendation for lasting happiness?
Correct Answer
A. Figure out your strengths and find new ways to use them.
Explanation
Martin Seligman's biggest recommendation for lasting happiness is to figure out your strengths and find new ways to use them. This means identifying your personal strengths and leveraging them in different aspects of your life. By doing so, you can experience a sense of fulfillment and achievement, leading to long-term happiness. Seligman believes that focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses can enhance well-being and contribute to a more positive and meaningful life.
5.
Which of the following areas would the mental status exam be unlikely to cover?
Correct Answer
E. Physical coordination
Explanation
The mental status exam is a clinical assessment tool used to evaluate a person's cognitive and emotional functioning. It typically focuses on areas such as mood and affect, attention and concentration, general appearance, and memory. However, physical coordination is not typically assessed in a mental status exam as it falls under the domain of a physical examination.
6.
Which of the following is NOT one of the Big Five dimensions asses by the NEO Personality Inventory?
Correct Answer
C. Optimism
Explanation
The question asks for the dimension that is NOT assessed by the NEO Personality Inventory. The NEO Personality Inventory is a psychological assessment tool that measures personality traits based on the Big Five model, which includes the dimensions of agreeableness, extroversion, neuroticism, openness to experience, and conscientiousness. Optimism is not one of the dimensions assessed by the NEO Personality Inventory, making it the correct answer.
7.
What is the G factor?
Correct Answer
B. A global intelligence factor that allows a person to learn skills in many areas
Explanation
The G factor refers to a global intelligence factor that enables an individual to acquire and master various skills across different areas. It is a measure of general cognitive ability or intelligence, which influences a person's capacity to learn and solve problems in diverse domains. This factor is not related to the role of a female's G spot or linguistic intelligence.
8.
Because of the research that has been done on them, intelligence tests have _____ and ________ within the psychological community.
Correct Answer
C. High reliability, controversial validity
Explanation
Intelligence tests have been extensively researched, leading to the conclusion that they have high reliability, meaning that they consistently measure intelligence. However, their validity, or the extent to which they accurately measure intelligence, is controversial. This suggests that while intelligence tests are consistent in their results, there is debate within the psychological community about whether these tests truly capture the complex nature of intelligence.
9.
According to the article "The New Science of Happiness," which of the following is NOT a recommendation for developing happiness or life satisfaction?
Correct Answer
A. Develop independence from others.
Explanation
The article suggests various recommendations for developing happiness and life satisfaction, such as finding ways to use your strengths, practicing gratitude, and developing strategies to cope with hardships. However, it does not recommend developing independence from others as a means to achieve happiness. The article likely emphasizes the importance of social connections and support in promoting happiness, suggesting that relying solely on oneself may not lead to the same level of satisfaction.
10.
What do intelligence tests actually predict?
Correct Answer
B. School grades
Explanation
Intelligence tests actually predict school grades. These tests assess cognitive abilities such as problem-solving, reasoning, and critical thinking skills, which are crucial for academic performance. Higher intelligence scores indicate a greater likelihood of achieving better grades in school. However, it is important to note that intelligence tests do not solely determine an individual's success in school, as other factors like motivation, study habits, and learning environment also play a significant role.
11.
Projective personality tests ________________________.
Correct Answer
C. Present ambiguous stimuli for the test-taker to make sense out of
Explanation
Projective personality tests present ambiguous stimuli for the test-taker to make sense out of. These tests typically involve showing individuals images or presenting them with open-ended questions, allowing them to project their thoughts, feelings, and interpretations onto the stimuli. Since the stimuli are intentionally vague or unclear, the test-taker's responses can provide insights into their unconscious thoughts, emotions, and personality traits. While projective tests may lack validity, meaning they may not accurately measure what they are intended to measure, they are considered reliable because they consistently produce similar results when administered multiple times. Additionally, these tests can be quickly administered and scored, making them convenient for researchers or clinicians.
12.
The MMPI is NOT _______________.
Correct Answer
D. A measure of talents and abilities.
Explanation
The MMPI is a personality test that is not designed to measure talents and abilities. It focuses on assessing various aspects of an individual's personality, such as their emotional and behavioral traits. While it is one of the most frequently used personality tests, it is not considered an objective test as it relies on self-reporting by individuals. Additionally, the MMPI cannot be easily scored by a computer as it requires interpretation by trained professionals.
13.
Which of the following is NOT a complaint about the original MMPI?
Correct Answer
A. It contradicted the results of projective tests.
Explanation
The original MMPI was not criticized for contradicting the results of projective tests. The other options presented valid complaints about the original MMPI. The length of the test, offensive items, and the composition of the standardization group were all raised as concerns. However, there is no evidence or criticism suggesting that the original MMPI contradicted the results of projective tests.
14.
Which is NOT an ethical principle in assessment?
Correct Answer
C. Bias
Explanation
When we do psychological assessments, it's important to be fair and unbiased. We shouldn't let our own opinions or prejudices influence how we understand the person we're assessing. The other options are important too: keeping their information secret (confidentiality), being qualified to do the assessment (competence), and getting their permission first (informed consent).
15.
What's the difference between a test and an assessment?
Correct Answer
C. Test = specific, Assessment = broad
Explanation
A test is like a single tool, like a ruler. It measures one specific thing, like your height. An assessment is like having a whole toolbox with different tools to get a complete picture. It might include tests, interviews, and observations to understand the whole person, not just one aspect.