Key Concepts
Reliability refers to the consistency of a test: test-retest, internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha), inter-rater, and split-half reliability
Validity refers to whether a test measures what it claims to measure: content, criterion (predictive and concurrent), and construct validity
The standard error of measurement (SEM) indicates the range within which a person's true score likely falls
Norm-referenced tests compare an individual's score to a normative group, while criterion-referenced tests measure performance against a fixed standard
The Mental Status Examination (MSE) assesses appearance, behavior, mood, affect, thought process, thought content, perception, cognition, insight, and judgment
Common standardized assessments include the MMPI-3, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), PHQ-9, GAD-7, and AUDIT
Cultural bias in testing can lead to misdiagnosis and must be considered when selecting and interpreting assessments
Why This Matters for the Exam
Assessment and testing is one of the 8 CACREP content areas on the NCE and receives consistent coverage. The ASWB exams also test assessment knowledge. Expect questions about reliability vs. validity, types of reliability and validity, interpreting test scores, the purpose of specific assessments, and cultural considerations in testing. Know the difference between norm-referenced and criterion-referenced tests.
Study Tips
Make sure you can clearly distinguish between reliability (consistency) and validity (accuracy). Know the subtypes of each. Understand standard scores, percentiles, and normal distributions at a conceptual level. Be familiar with the most commonly used clinical assessments and what they measure. Practice questions that ask you to identify the type of reliability or validity described in a scenario.