PSYC31H3 Midterm: Chapter Six – The Neuropsychological Examination
Document Summary
Basic data of psychological examinations = behavioural observation. Essential providing context in which current observations can be best understood. Accurate interpretation of the patient"s examination behaviour and test responses = need some knowledge of developmental/medical history, family background, educational and occupational accomplishments and patients current living situation and level of social functioning. Importance of background info in interpreting examination observations = obvious for test-score on school-related skills or in vocational history that implies a particular performance level. Motivation to reach a goal = important: professionals can be of average ability while an individual w/ exceptional ability might be a shoe clerk. Background variables (age and education) to test performance = not appreciated in interpreting the different kinds of tests including to measure. Naturalistic observations = useful info about how patient functions outside formalized, usually high structured and possibly intimidating examination setting.
