Chapter 11 & 12: Personality Assessment

What is a personality trait?

A relatively enduring way an individual differs from others.

What is a personality state?

A temporary expression of a trait influenced by context.

Name two advantages of self-report personality measures.

Insight into internal states; easy to administer.

What is socially desirable responding?

Answering in a way that presents oneself positively.

What are two common response styles that distort results?

Acquiescence and nonacquiescence.

What does the MMPI-2-RF assess?

Psychological disorders using 9 restructured clinical scales and multiple validity scales.

What is the purpose of validity scales in personality tests?

To detect response styles like faking good or bad, and careless responding.

What is a projective test?

A personality assessment using ambiguous stimuli to access unconscious processes.

What is the Rorschach test?

A projective test using inkblots scored by location, determinants, and content.

What is the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) used for?

Evaluating themes in story responses to pictures reflecting internal needs.