International Histories of Psychological Assessment

To look back and learn is essential to understanding the past and shaping the future. This book provides a global perspective on psychological assessment, highlighting underrepresented and marginalized voices and equipping readers with tools to map the future of the field. It advocates for a more inclusive science of assessment that can enhance creativity and innovation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Looking back and learning is essential for looking forward. History is not just a collection of facts about the past; it is a narrative told from a particular perspective. A proverb from Africa, "Until lions have their own historians, tales of the hunt shall always glorify the hunter," captures this essence.

Most of the scholarship in psychological assessment comes from specific nationalities and cultures, which fails to reflect the diversity and breadth of histories related to the field. This collection, spanning 50 countries, gives voice to those who have previously been underrepresented and sometimes marginalized. It not only describes significant moments in psychological assessment from around the globe but also equips readers with the tools to map the future of psychological assessment across nations. It advocates for a more globally inclusive science of assessment that holds promise for enhancing creativity and innovation in the field.

The history of psychological assessment is diverse and multifaceted, reflecting the cultural and societal contexts in which it has developed. From ancient civilizations to modern times, psychologists have sought to understand and evaluate individuals' behavior and mental processes.

One of the earliest forms of psychological assessment was conducted by ancient Greek philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle. They believed that the mind was the source of all knowledge and that understanding the workings of the mind could lead to a better understanding of oneself and the world around us.

During the Middle Ages, psychological assessment was primarily concerned with diagnosing and treating mental disorders. The works of medieval scholars such as St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Bonaventure emphasized the importance of spiritual and moral guidance in the treatment of mental illness.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, psychological assessment began to evolve into a more scientific discipline. Psychologists such as Jean-Baptiste Lamarck and Wilhelm Wundt developed theories of human behavior and the mind, which were based on empirical observations and experimentation.

In the 20th century, psychological assessment continued to evolve and expand. Psychologists such as B.F. Skinner and John B. Watson developed behaviorist theories of learning and conditioning, which emphasized the role of environmental factors in shaping behavior.

In the 21st century, psychological assessment has become even more diverse and complex. With the advent of new technologies and methods, psychologists are able to assess individuals' behavior and mental processes in new and innovative ways. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely used method of psychological assessment that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

Despite the progress that has been made in psychological assessment, there are still significant challenges to be addressed. One of the most significant challenges is the lack of diversity in the field. Psychological assessment has historically been dominated by Western cultures and perspectives, which has led to a lack of representation and understanding of diverse cultures and communities.

To address this challenge, there has been a growing movement toward globalizing psychological assessment. This movement seeks to promote a more inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to psychological assessment that recognizes the diversity and breadth of histories related to the field.

One of the key strategies for globalizing psychological assessment is the development of culturally sensitive assessment tools and methods. These tools and methods are designed to be sensitive to the cultural norms, values, and beliefs of different cultures and communities. For example, some assessment tools may use language that is familiar to the cultural group being assessed, or may incorporate cultural symbols and metaphors to enhance understanding and engagement.

Another strategy for globalizing psychological assessment is the promotion of cross-cultural collaboration and exchange. Psychologists are increasingly working together across borders to share knowledge and expertise and to develop new approaches to psychological assessment. This collaboration can help to break down cultural barriers and promote a more inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to psychological assessment.

In addition to these strategies, there are also efforts to promote globalizing psychological assessment through education and training. Psychologists are increasingly offering training programs and workshops that focus on globalizing psychological assessment, and are providing opportunities for professionals to develop the skills and knowledge needed to work with diverse populations.

Overall, the globalizing of psychological assessment is an important movement that holds promise for promoting a more inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to psychological assessment. By recognizing the diversity and breadth of histories related to the field, psychologists.

ISBN-13: 9781108719100