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Chapter 8 - Principles of Psychological Assessment

from Section 2 - Tools and Methodologies

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 October 2025

Dawn N. Albertson
Affiliation:
University of New Hampshire
Derek K. Tracy
Affiliation:
South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust
Dan W. Joyce
Affiliation:
University of Liverpool
Sukhwinder S. Shergill
Affiliation:
Kent and Medway Medical School
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Summary

This chapter provides an overview of quantitative approaches to psychological assessment, focusing on measurement instruments used in mental health research. It traces the origins of psychological measurement, outlines its limitations, and explains essential psychometric properties—reliability, validity, and standardisation—needed for selecting high-quality tools. The discussion includes advances in psychometric theory, such as measurement invariance, and their implications for fair and responsible assessment. Practical considerations for test selection, interpretation, and application are highlighted, emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive and scientifically robust methods. The chapter concludes with reflections on the future of psychological assessment in research and practice.

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