Psychological Evaluations and Testing

Psychological evaluation involves the use of observation, interviews, rating scales and questionnaires, and informal and standardized tests to investigate a person’s emotional, cognitive, academic, or vocational functioning. The data generated from such assessments can be used to diagnose a condition; to aid in intervention, training, and placement decisions; to inform those working with the individual how best to do so; or to help the person and those around him or her to better understand the person’s strengths and weaknesses, thought processes, and behaviors. Every person’s developmental, educational, and cultural and linguistic background affects the types of tests that are appropriate to be used with that individual and how the tests should be interpreted. These factors are particularly relevant for deaf individuals regardless of whether they ...