Psychological testing in the profession of psychology: an Australian study

Abstract

Objectives In Australia, psychological measurement and testing is a core competency for all registered psychologists. This study aimed to provide a current perspective on the views of Australian psychologists in the use of psychological testing given the lack of recent Australian research.Method Psychologists (N = 821) completed online a demographic form and the European Federation of Psychologists’ Associations (EFPA) questionnaire on Test Attitudes of Psychologists – Modified (EQTAP-M), refined for the Australian setting. Constructs addressed in the survey included test appreciation, training, technology-based testing, attitudes to test use, and self-rated competence. The sample mean age was 50 years, with 84% over 34 years and 20% being males.Results Attitudinal differences, based on demographics and practice endorsement area, were examined. Partial support was obtained for the factorial model of previous EFPA studies. There was no difference in attitudes based upon the gender of the psychologists, but older psychologists reported less favourable attitudes and lower competence for psychological testing. Psychologists holding endorsements in organisational psychology, neuropsychology, and educational and developmental psychology indicated more positive testing attitudes and appreciation than other areas of practice. The application of technology in assessment was identified as an area that warrants further investigation and training.Conclusions The outcome has theoretical and practical implications for professional bodies and educational institutions that develop policies and training programs relevant to psychological measurement and testing.

Keywords

• Area of practice endorsement
• Australia
• psychologists
• testing attitudes
• testing survey
• training