Approach in Taking Tests: A Technique for Studying the Examinee's Behavior

Abstract

Argument over the validity and reliability of tests continues; so, happily, does research. One of the persistent criticisms of tests in general has arisen from the varied temperaments of the subjects, the differing conditions under which the tests are given, and the diverse reactions to the test situations. All of these without reference to content of the test or the particular human characteristic which it was supposed to test. Keen to sense the fact that this behavior is also a most important evidence of the make‐up of personality, psychologists have seized upon it as a valuable diagnostic tool. Throughout Europe the psychotechnicians will show you test after test designed primarily to reveal the individual's manner of approaching it. The most elaborate analysis of possible actions and alternative interpretations is Dr. Baumgarten's, which is included in Die Test‐methode, her contribution to the Handbuch der biologischen Arbeitsmethoden, edited by E. Abderhalden. We translated it from the German, discussed it at her home in Solothurn, Switzerland, and received her approval of our version. We believe it will be of deep interest to our readers.