Mental health professionals use psychological measurements, also called psychological tests, as a means to investigate, standardize, and compare individuals’ cognitive, emotional, and behavioral [Page 1366]processes. Each test typically consists of one or more scales that evaluate factors such as abilities, symptoms, traits, states, and attitudes. The use of psychological tests is generally conducted within the context of a broader psychological assessment, which also commonly includes a clinical interview and behavioral observations, in addition to other sources of information. While psychological measurements are not required elements of an assessment, they are often utilized to supplement the evaluator’s opinion.

Psychological tests are commonly divided into two broad categories: (1) cognitive abilities/achievement and (2) personality/psychopathology. Cognitive assessment refers to an evaluation of how an individual thinks and includes the ...