Tests

Medically reviewed by Melissa Guarnaccia, LCSW

Psychological testing is generally designed to help a person gain insight into why they may be experiencing various symptoms and to help specialists determine a diagnosis. In many ways, psychological testing and assessments are like standard medical tests. While a medical doctor may test your blood, a therapist may test your social skills, for instance. Thus, these psychological tests usually test for the presence or absence of certain traits, signs, and symptoms of various mental health disorders. You can take psychological tests by working with a therapist.

Mental health test

Psychological tests, also known as assessments or evaluations, can be administered for many reasons, including to identify a mental health disorder or diagnose a disability. They typically involve the tests of a person’s mental health and behavioral function through standardized tests. 

Tests are often administered to determine whether an individual has certain conditions. Psychological tests can reveal a great deal about an individual’s diagnosis, test their personality type, test relationships, and test more. The testing can also offer an individual answers to any questions they may have. The results of the tests can contribute to a diagnosis.

Although mental health testing is not compulsory, it is becoming a crucial aspect of comprehensive public health care. Government insurance test, for instance, is considering coverage for mental health. Some public clinics host occasional free mental health tests and therapy resources are available online to help the community.

Type of test

One of the most common types of tests you might be familiar with is the IQ (intelligence quotient) test. IQ and achievement tests were generally first introduced in the early 1900s and have become quite prevalent around the world. According to the American Psychological Association, one sign of IQ test validity may be how this type of test is consistently being refined and improved. Currently, these tests may go beyond intelligence measures to include emotional intelligence and other types of intelligence. 

Personality test

Another common type of psychological test may be a personality test. Personality tests tend to be useful in therapy and have even been used in the workplace. These types of tests are often useful in psychology, as they can help individuals express and learn more about their own emotions, traits, and personal development.

What to expect during a test

Mental health tests is usually not like taking the SAT, an emotional IQ test, or a regular multiple-choice test. Some psychological tests do contain multiple-choice questions, but there is usually no right or wrong answer. Mental health tests are often taken as paper tests or online tests.

There are generally no correct answers when it comes to a psychological test. Some people might want to look at a psychological test ahead of time to determine what they view to be the “right” answers. Doing this may compromise your test results. 

If you want to test your diagnosis, it can be crucial to remain honest and transparent about your experiences in the tests. Your test results can help mental health professionals create an effective treatment plan for you, so it’s best to answer each question in the test accurately and to the best of your ability.

Don’t be afraid

When you hear that you may need psychological testing, it can be scary. Your fear of tests are valid and understandable, but try to keep in mind that these kinds of tests are generally here to help you. Completing mental health testing can ultimately help you on your journey toward improved mental health. 

Online therapy can be a great choice for those who are interested in seeking professional help with mental health tests. An online therapist may be able to test your symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan for you over the internet. 

Takeaway

Psychological testing may sound intimidating, but tests are generally a tool meant to form an effective treatment plan. For this reason, it can be crucial to be as honest when completing this type of testing. If you have any questions or concerns about tests, speak to a licensed therapist about tests.

Frequently asked questions

Read more below for answers to questions commonly asked about tests and different types of testing.

What are the Big Five tests?

In the Big Five personal test, a person is tested based on the score they get from the five personalities which are: Openness to experience, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism.

What is the hardest test in life?

Many people attest that the most difficult tests they have faced in life are major changes like breakups, divorce, moving, or loss of a loved one.