Muirne Paap: how does clinical psychology benefit from developments in information technology?

How does clinical psychology benefit from developments in information technology?

Developments in the field of IT have advanced faster than ever in recent decades. They make numerous applications possible that previously seemed impossible. These include innovations in psychological testing.

Psychological test scores are often used as a basis for important decisions. Examples include job application procedures and the provision of psychiatric treatment. In such cases, it is essential that the test yields the most accurate test score possible. A commonly used strategy to increase accuracy is to extend a test. However, a test of 400 questions is a considerable burden.

An alternative strategy is the development of a computer adaptive test (CAT). This is a test in which the selection of questions is tailored to the respondent’s response behaviour. This results in a highly efficient test that is no longer than necessary but can guarantee the desired accuracy.

CAT was originally developed in the context of educational measurement, but is now becoming increasingly popular in other fields, including psychology and psychiatry. I investigate to what extent CAT can be used in other fields, and where we can further develop the methodology for application in clinical practice. I will apply these insights in a project for which I recently received funding. The aim of this project is to develop a CAT that can be used by clinicians to map personality disorders.