Psych Assessment & Ethics – Master Revision (80Q)

Question 1

Q1: A psychologist is asked to assess a 9-year-old refugee child who speaks minimal English. Which action best demonstrates appropriate professional judgment?
a) Use a standardized test with translated instructions
b) Proceed with testing using non-verbal subtests only
c) Seek consultation and defer testing until a cultural liaison is available
d) Administer the full assessment using the parent as translator

Answer 1

c) Seek consultation and defer testing until a cultural liaison is available
Rationale: Professional judgment requires culturally competent adaptations and recognizing limitations in test validity.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 2 – Selecting Tests]

Question 2

Q2: In a multidisciplinary team meeting, a psychologist notices the social worker is pushing for a recommendation the client has not consented to. What is the psychologist’s most ethical action?
a) Remain silent to preserve team harmony
b) Voice concerns and advocate for the client’s autonomy
c) Compromise by agreeing to partial disclosure
d) Report the social worker to AHPRA

Answer 2

b) Voice concerns and advocate for the client’s autonomy
Rationale: Ethical practice prioritizes informed consent and client autonomy, especially in team settings.
Source: [Lecture 10 – MDTs and Ethical Boundaries]

Question 3

Q3: Which type of validity is most relevant when assessing whether a test reflects the construct it claims to measure?
a) Criterion validity
b) Construct validity
c) Content validity
d) Test-retest reliability

Answer 3

b) Construct validity
Rationale: Construct validity evaluates whether a tool measures the intended psychological concept.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3 – Testing]

Question 4

Q4: A psychologist is asked to assess a client with a significant physical disability using a standard test that requires motor coordination. What is the most appropriate next step?
a) Adapt the test without documentation
b) Use an alternate, validated measure
c) Proceed with the original test but interpret results cautiously
d) Refer the client to occupational therapy

Answer 4

b) Use an alternate, validated measure
Rationale: Tests must be valid for the client’s context. Substituting with a psychometrically appropriate alternative ensures ethical and accurate assessment.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 2 – Selecting Tests]

Question 5

Q5: According to the Routledge Handbook, one barrier to culturally safe practice in mainstream mental health services is:
a) Lack of clinical supervision
b) Focus on short-term outcomes
c) Over-reliance on Western epistemologies
d) Use of outdated DSM categories

Answer 5

c) Over-reliance on Western epistemologies
Rationale: The handbook critiques how Western worldviews dominate clinical models, often marginalizing Indigenous perspectives.
Source: [Routledge Handbook, Ch. 1]

Question 6

Q6: A psychologist receives a referral to conduct a risk assessment on a First Nations adolescent. What is the most ethically sound initial step?
a) Proceed using a standard actuarial tool
b) Decline the case due to cultural unfamiliarity
c) Engage with cultural consultants or community members
d) Ask the adolescent to complete an online survey

Answer 6

c) Engage with cultural consultants or community members
Rationale: Ethical and culturally responsive practice involves collaboration and respect for local knowledge.
Source: [Lecture 4 + Routledge Handbook, Ch. 5]

Question 7

Q7: Which of the following best demonstrates inappropriate use of psychological assessment tools?
a) Adapting language for a child with limited literacy
b) Using outdated norms for a recently revised test
c) Interpreting results in light of the client’s background
d) Employing multiple methods to test a single hypothesis

Answer 7

b) Using outdated norms for a recently revised test
Rationale: Outdated norms invalidate results and compromise assessment integrity.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3]

Question 8

Q8: A client discloses during a session that they are being financially abused by a family member. Which ethical principle is most directly relevant in deciding whether to breach confidentiality?
a) Competence
b) Integrity
c) Justice
d) Beneficence

Answer 8

d) Beneficence
Rationale: Beneficence requires acting in the client’s best interest to prevent harm.
Source: [APS Code of Ethics, General Principle A]

Question 9

Q9: A test shows excellent internal consistency (α = .91). What does this tell the psychologist?
a) The test yields stable results over time
b) The items measure the same underlying construct
c) The test is valid across cultural contexts
d) The test matches DSM diagnostic criteria

Answer 9

b) The items measure the same underlying construct
Rationale: Cronbach’s alpha reflects internal consistency, or interrelatedness among items.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3 – Testing]

Question 10

Q10: What is a key weakness of using only self-report measures in psychological assessment?
a) They are not standardized
b) They lack any diagnostic relevance
c) They are too time-consuming
d) They may not reflect unconscious processes or blind spots

Answer 10

d) They may not reflect unconscious processes or blind spots
Rationale: Wright emphasizes that no single method (especially self-report) gives a full picture — multi-method assessment is vital.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Introduction + Ch. 1]

Question 11

Q11: A psychologist plans to use a U.S.-standardized ADHD assessment with an Australian Aboriginal teenager. What is the primary risk in doing so without adaptation?
a) The test may yield false positives due to cultural differences
b) The client may not understand the test instructions
c) The assessment might be too easy
d) The scoring may not be available in metric units

Answer 11

a) The test may yield false positives due to cultural differences
Rationale: Tests normed in one culture may not generalize to others, risking inaccurate conclusions.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 2]

Question 12

Q12: During a case review, a psychologist strongly disagrees with a psychiatrist’s diagnosis but is unsure how to raise the issue. What is the most ethical course of action?
a) Ignore the discrepancy to avoid team conflict
b) Raise the concern respectfully, using evidence-based reasoning
c) Submit a private complaint
d) Call the client and disclose the disagreement

Answer 12

b) Raise the concern respectfully, using evidence-based reasoning
Rationale: Team-based care requires open, professional communication for client safety and ethical integrity.
Source: [Lecture 10 – Working in MDTs]

Question 13

Q13: What does it mean for a psychological measure to have high predictive validity?
a) It produces consistent results over time
b) It accurately reflects the theoretical construct
c) It correlates well with future outcomes
d) It appears subjectively appropriate to clients

Answer 13

c) It correlates well with future outcomes
Rationale: Predictive validity measures how well a test forecasts future behavior or performance.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3]

Question 14

Q14: A psychologist is choosing between two measures: one with excellent internal consistency but limited norms, and one with broader norms but lower reliability. Which principle should guide their choice?
a) Choose the one with internal consistency over norms
b) Choose the more time-efficient one
c) Select the tool with better overall validity and population match
d) Use both and average the results

Answer 14

c) Select the tool with better overall validity and population match
Rationale: Fit-for-purpose selection must consider the test’s appropriateness for the client population.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 2]

Question 15

Q15: In the APS Code of Ethics, which principle is most directly related to protecting client confidentiality?
a) Integrity
b) Propriety
c) Respect
d) Competence

Answer 15

c) Respect
Rationale: Respect for the rights and dignity of people includes maintaining confidentiality.
Source: [APS Code of Ethics – Principle A]

Question 16

Q16: A psychologist conducting an MSE observes that a client is responding to internal stimuli. Under which domain of the MSE would this be documented?
a) Thought content
b) Affect
c) Sensorium
d) Insight

Answer 16

a) Thought content
Rationale: Responding to internal stimuli (e.g., hallucinations) is recorded under thought content.
Source: [Lecture 6 – Mental Status Examination]

Question 17

Q17: Which of the following best reflects the scientist-practitioner model?
a) Practitioners generate research but do not apply it
b) Psychologists only use intuition to guide decisions
c) Psychologists integrate empirical evidence into practice
d) Only researchers can be scientist-practitioners

Answer 17

c) Psychologists integrate empirical evidence into practice
Rationale: The model emphasizes a two-way relationship between science and applied psychology.
Source: [Lecture 2 – Professional Practice Foundations]

Question 18

Q18: A psychologist modifies a validated depression measure to remove culturally insensitive questions. What must they now consider?
a) Whether the measure can still be billed
b) Whether the measure remains valid and reliable
c) Whether clients understand the original items
d) Whether the test becomes easier

Answer 18

b) Whether the measure remains valid and reliable
Rationale: Altering items can affect the psychometric integrity of a tool.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3]

Question 19

Q19: In a risk assessment, what does the term dynamic risk factor refer to?
a) A stable trait such as age or diagnosis
b) An unchangeable past behavior
c) A modifiable condition such as substance use
d) A legal requirement to report harm

Answer 19

c) A modifiable condition such as substance use
Rationale: Dynamic risk factors are changeable and targetable in intervention.
Source: [Lecture 7 – Risk Assessment]

Question 20

Q20: A psychologist uses a test with strong face validity but low construct validity. What is the primary concern?
a) Clients will not trust the test
b) The test may not measure what it claims to
c) The test will be unreliable over time
d) Results will be biased by social desirability

Answer 20

b) The test may not measure what it claims to
Rationale: Construct validity is crucial to ensure the test measures the intended psychological concept.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3]

Question 21

Q21: A psychologist observes that a client consistently provides socially desirable responses during an intake interview. Which strategy is most appropriate to reduce this bias?
a) Reassure the client their responses will remain confidential
b) Switch to closed-ended questions only
c) Increase the number of self-report measures
d) Confront the client directly about their dishonesty

Answer 21

a) Reassure the client their responses will remain confidential
Rationale: Social desirability bias often stems from fear of judgment; building safety and rapport mitigates this.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 1]

Question 22

Q22: When interpreting psychological test results, which step is most critical to ensure cultural validity?
a) Convert raw scores to T-scores
b) Use culturally diverse scoring norms
c) Focus solely on statistical reliability
d) Apply the same interpretation framework for all clients

Answer 22

b) Use culturally diverse scoring norms
Rationale: Cultural validity requires norm-referenced comparisons appropriate for the client’s background.
Source: [Routledge Handbook, Ch. 3]

Question 23

Q23: A psychologist is concerned that their own cultural background may affect how they interpret a First Nations client’s emotional expression. What is the most ethical next step?
a) Terminate therapy to avoid misinterpretation
b) Ask the client to explain their culture
c) Seek cultural supervision or peer consultation
d) Proceed based on clinical intuition

Answer 23

c) Seek cultural supervision or peer consultation
Rationale: Ethical practice requires self-reflection and cultural humility, including seeking support to reduce bias.
Source: [Lecture 5 + APS Ethical Guidelines]

Question 24

Q24: Which best describes incremental validity in test selection?
a) The test yields more consistent results than others
b) The test explains additional variance beyond other tools
c) The test is more affordable than similar measures
d) The test has clearer face validity

Answer 24

b) The test explains additional variance beyond other tools
Rationale: Incremental validity assesses a measure’s added value in predicting outcomes above what is already known.
Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3]

Question 25

Q25: A psychologist administering a test notices the client has misunderstood several items due to a language barrier. What is the most appropriate response? a) Continue but note the misunderstanding in the report b) Offer to translate the items into simpler English c) Discontinue and find a more appropriate measure d) Adjust the client’s score to reflect estimated understanding

Answer 25

c) Discontinue and find a more appropriate measure Rationale: Psychometric integrity cannot be preserved if comprehension is compromised; an alternative tool is required. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 2]

Question 26

Q26: Which of the following is a key ethical issue when writing a psychological assessment report for court use? a) Including the client’s entire history verbatim b) Using clinical jargon throughout c) Ensuring the report is understandable by non-psychologists d) Prioritising the client’s preferred narrative

Answer 26

c) Ensuring the report is understandable by non-psychologists Rationale: Reports must be accurate, clear, and usable by the intended audience — including legal professionals. Source: [Lecture 9 – Report Writing]

Question 27

Q27: In the Mental Status Examination (MSE), a client’s rapid speech and flight of ideas would most likely fall under which domain? a) Appearance b) Speech c) Thought form d) Insight

Answer 27

c) Thought form Rationale: Thought form captures logic, flow, and structure of ideas, including tangentiality and rapid shifts. Source: [Lecture 6 – MSE]

Question 28

Q28: Why is triangulation important in psychological assessment? a) It helps identify malingering b) It increases the standard deviation c) It allows multiple methods to corroborate findings d) It reduces the time required for testing

Answer 28

c) It allows multiple methods to corroborate findings Rationale: Triangulation enhances validity by integrating data from different sources. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 1]

Question 29

Q29: A psychologist working with a child in out-of-home care wants to evaluate attachment and trauma symptoms. What is the most important consideration in selecting a tool? a) Its popularity among clinicians b) Its availability for free online c) Its psychometric validity with trauma-affected populations d) Whether it can be completed quickly

Answer 29

c) Its psychometric validity with trauma-affected populations Rationale: Test choice must be tailored to the population; trauma-sensitive measures are essential. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 2 + Lecture 8]

Question 30

Q30: A client shares that they are planning to end their life but begs the psychologist not to tell anyone. What should the psychologist do? a) Keep the information confidential b) Respect the client’s wishes to preserve rapport c) Contact emergency services or a crisis team d) Ask a colleague to speak with the client instead

Answer 30

c) Contact emergency services or a crisis team Rationale: There is an ethical and legal duty to protect life when risk is imminent. Source: [APS Code of Ethics – Section C; Lecture 7]

Question 31

Q31: Which of the following scenarios best illustrates a breach of the APS Code of Ethics? a) A psychologist delays writing a report due to illness b) A psychologist shares anonymised data with a research team c) A psychologist discusses a client’s case with a friend over coffee d) A psychologist consults a colleague during clinical supervision

Answer 31

c) A psychologist discusses a client’s case with a friend over coffee Rationale: This constitutes a clear breach of confidentiality and violates ethical guidelines. Source: [APS Code of Ethics – Section A.5]

Question 32

Q32: What does “standardization” refer to in psychological testing? a) Ensuring tests are legally approved b) Matching test scores with a clinical diagnosis c) Administering and scoring tests in a consistent way d) Using culturally adapted versions of tests

Answer 32

c) Administering and scoring tests in a consistent way Rationale: Standardization ensures uniform administration and scoring procedures across all test-takers. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3]

Question 33

Q33: A psychologist finds that their own values are influencing how they view a client’s parenting practices. What is the most ethical step to take? a) Continue and ignore the concern b) Discuss the issue with a culturally informed supervisor c) Inform the client of your disagreement d) Refer the client to a social worker

Answer 33

b) Discuss the issue with a culturally informed supervisor Rationale: Ethical self-awareness involves recognising bias and seeking appropriate supervision. Source: [Lecture 5 – Cultural Self-Reflection]

Question 34

Q34: Which best defines clinical utility in psychological assessment? a) The speed with which a test can be administered b) The extent to which results guide intervention or decision-making c) The ability of a test to generate raw scores d) The match between test and DSM diagnosis

Answer 34

b) The extent to which results guide intervention or decision-making Rationale: Clinical utility refers to the practical usefulness of a test in applied settings. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3]

Question 35

Q35: In multicultural assessment, which principle is most essential? a) Using only translated measures b) Avoiding assessments altogether c) Understanding the client’s cultural framework d) Focusing solely on DSM-5 criteria

Answer 35

c) Understanding the client’s cultural framework Rationale: Culturally informed assessment depends on awareness of worldview, values, and contextual meaning. Source: [Routledge Handbook, Ch. 2]

Question 36

Q36: A client reports increased suicidal ideation but no intent or plan. The psychologist is unsure whether to document the disclosure. What should guide their decision? a) Whether the client returns for the next session b) Whether the psychologist believes the client is exaggerating c) The ethical duty to document clinical risk factors d) Whether the issue was resolved during the session

Answer 36

c) The ethical duty to document clinical risk factors Rationale: Documenting risk is a core professional responsibility, regardless of perceived severity. Source: [APS Ethical Guidelines – Suicide Risk]

Question 37

Q37: A measure with low test-retest reliability suggests that: a) Items are well correlated b) Results change over time even with stable traits c) The test has strong construct validity d) Clients respond with high accuracy

Answer 37

b) Results change over time even with stable traits Rationale: Test-retest reliability reflects stability; low scores suggest inconsistency. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3]

Question 38

Q38: A psychologist wants to ensure that their assessment findings are not misused in a legal context. What step can help mitigate this risk? a) Avoid writing any conclusions b) Use complex language so only professionals understand it c) Clearly state the limitations of the assessment d) Rely on client preferences in interpretation

Answer 38

c) Clearly state the limitations of the assessment Rationale: Transparent reporting protects against misuse or overgeneralization in non-clinical settings. Source: [Lecture 9 – Report Writing]

Question 39

Q39: Which of the following best demonstrates cultural humility in psychological practice? a) Memorising cultural facts about minority groups b) Asking all clients the same cultural questions c) Maintaining openness and a learning stance across cultural encounters d) Avoiding cultural discussions to prevent offense

Answer 39

c) Maintaining openness and a learning stance across cultural encounters Rationale: Cultural humility emphasizes ongoing reflection and responsiveness, not fixed knowledge. Source: [Routledge Handbook, Ch. 1]

Question 40

Q40: Which ethical principle underpins the psychologist’s responsibility to monitor their fitness to practice? a) Respect b) Competence c) Justice d) Integrity

Answer 40

b) Competence Rationale: Psychologists must self-monitor and seek support to ensure they are fit to practice. Source: [APS Code of Ethics – General Principle B]

Question 41

Q41: A psychologist receives a subpoena to provide test data and raw scores. What is the most appropriate course of action? a) Immediately release the full file to the court b) Refuse to provide the data due to client confidentiality c) Seek guidance from ethical and legal codes before responding d) Contact the client and ask them to decline

Answer 41

c) Seek guidance from ethical and legal codes before responding Rationale: Subpoenas require careful balancing of legal and ethical responsibilities. Source: [APS Ethical Guidelines – Confidentiality and Court Orders]

Question 42

Q42: A test with strong content validity ensures that: a) Items appear relevant to non-professionals b) The measure covers all important aspects of the construct c) Results are consistent over time d) The test is enjoyable for clients

Answer 42

b) The measure covers all important aspects of the construct Rationale: Content validity addresses how well a test represents the domain it aims to assess. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3]

Question 43

Q43: During intake, a psychologist learns that the client is under the care of another mental health professional. What is the most ethical next step? a) Proceed with treatment b) Contact the other professional to coordinate care (with consent) c) Assume the client is dissatisfied with the current provider d) Decline to treat the client

Answer 43

b) Contact the other professional to coordinate care (with consent) Rationale: Ethical practice promotes collaboration, with the client’s permission, to support integrated care. Source: [APS Code of Ethics – Section B.6]

Question 44

Q44: Which of the following is a limitation of using only norm-referenced tests in diverse populations? a) They are too short b) They do not require trained professionals c) They assume homogeneity in cultural background d) They are always too difficult

Answer 44

c) They assume homogeneity in cultural background Rationale: Norm-referenced tools may misrepresent performance if norms do not reflect the client’s background. Source: [Routledge Handbook, Ch. 2]

Question 45

Q45: In risk assessment, which of the following is considered a protective factor? a) Prior suicide attempt b) Impulsivity c) Substance dependence d) Strong social support

Answer 45

d) Strong social support Rationale: Protective factors reduce risk; social connection is among the most robust buffers. Source: [Lecture 7 – Risk Formulation]

Question 46

Q46: A client expresses distrust in mainstream psychological services due to historical trauma. What is the most appropriate response from the psychologist? a) Encourage the client to focus on the present b) Defend the profession and reassure the client c) Acknowledge the client’s experience and explore their concerns d) Refer the client to another provider

Answer 46

c) Acknowledge the client’s experience and explore their concerns Rationale: Validation and cultural responsiveness are essential for building therapeutic trust. Source: [Routledge Handbook, Ch. 1]

Question 47

Q47: A test with high face validity but poor psychometric backing might: a) Be reliable and valid b) Appear relevant but lack scientific rigor c) Be widely used in hospitals d) Be invalid only for children

Answer 47

b) Appear relevant but lack scientific rigor Rationale: Face validity refers to perceived relevance, not psychometric strength. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3]

Question 48

Q48: A client from a culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) background presents with distress but avoids eye contact and offers brief responses. What should the psychologist consider first? a) The client is likely non-compliant b) These behaviors are signs of deception c) Cultural norms may shape communication style d) The client does not require therapy

Answer 48

c) Cultural norms may shape communication style Rationale: Behaviors must be interpreted within cultural context to avoid misjudgment. Source: [Lecture 4 – Culturally Competent Practice]

Question 49

Q49: What is the most accurate way to determine if a test score is meaningful for clinical decision-making? a) Check the test’s publication date b) Ask the client how they feel about the test c) Evaluate the test’s validity and clinical utility d) Use it only if it’s the most popular tool

Answer 49

c) Evaluate the test’s validity and clinical utility Rationale: Scores are only useful if the test is psychometrically sound and practically relevant. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3]

Question 50

Q50: A psychologist working with a transgender client insists on using their legal name instead of their chosen name in sessions. What ethical principle is most at risk? a) Competence b) Integrity c) Respect d) Justice

Answer 50

c) Respect Rationale: Respect includes affirming identity and preserving the dignity of the individual. Source: [APS Code of Ethics – General Principle A]

Question 51

Q51: During a multidisciplinary team meeting, a psychologist notices rising tension between two colleagues about a treatment plan. What is the psychologist’s most appropriate contribution? a) Avoid taking sides and stay silent b) Encourage the team to refocus on the client’s goals c) Support the dominant clinician to de-escalate the conflict d) Report the team disagreement to AHPRA

Answer 51

b) Encourage the team to refocus on the client’s goals Rationale: Effective team communication involves conflict resolution grounded in shared client-centered objectives. Source: [Lecture 2 – Professional Communication in Teams]

Question 52

Q52: Which of the following best represents motivational interviewing in practice? a) Offering advice quickly to ensure motivation b) Exploring ambivalence and supporting autonomy c) Reframing all resistance as denial d) Using confrontation to challenge unhealthy habits

Answer 52

b) Exploring ambivalence and supporting autonomy Rationale: Motivational interviewing is a client-centered approach focused on enhancing intrinsic motivation. Source: [Week 2 Readings – Motivational Interviewing Principles]

Question 53

Q53: According to Fernández and Abe (2020), what is a key limitation of applying Western-designed tests in cross-cultural contexts? a) Clients may find them too lengthy b) Tests assume psychological constructs are universal c) They are unavailable in non-English languages d) Scoring systems are too complex for clinicians

Answer 53

b) Tests assume psychological constructs are universal Rationale: Western assessments often embed culture-specific assumptions not valid across populations. Source: [Fernández & Abe, 2020]

Question 54

Q54: Which approach would best support bias reduction during test interpretation? a) Prioritise test norms over lived experience b) Blind yourself to cultural information during testing c) Use multiple data sources and interpret findings contextually d) Only interpret results if they align with DSM categories

Answer 54

c) Use multiple data sources and interpret findings contextually Rationale: Integration of diverse sources helps mitigate bias and supports accurate formulation. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 4]

Question 55

Q55: Noble et al. (2023) suggest that interpersonal difficulties in adults with ASD may be misunderstood. Which implication does this have for practice? a) Personality disorders are over-diagnosed in neurotypical clients b) ASD presentations may resemble relational trauma c) Social difficulties should always be pathologized d) Autistic clients should avoid group therapy

Answer 55

b) ASD presentations may resemble relational trauma Rationale: Misdiagnosis can occur when clinicians lack nuanced understanding of ASD in adult contexts. Source: [Noble et al., 2023]

Question 56

Q56: A psychologist using an AI chatbot to support client engagement should be most concerned about: a) Whether the client enjoys the chatbot b) Breaching therapeutic transference boundaries c) Saving session time through automation d) Making the chatbot appear friendly

Answer 56

b) Breaching therapeutic transference boundaries Rationale: AI use may blur relational lines and interfere with core therapeutic processes. Source: [Week 7 AI Reading – ChatGPT and Transference]

Question 57

Q57: Which of the following would best demonstrate ethical AI integration into psychological practice? a) Delegating diagnostic decisions to AI b) Using AI to replace client sessions c) Using AI for administrative tasks while maintaining professional oversight d) Disguising AI-generated feedback as human-generated

Answer 57

c) Using AI for administrative tasks while maintaining professional oversight Rationale: Ethical integration requires transparency and professional judgment over automation. Source: [Week 7 Readings – AI Ethics in Practice]

Question 58

Q58: Which factor is most critical when integrating assessment data into a case formulation? a) Using the most recent test result b) Prioritising the most psychometrically complex test c) Synthesising results with clinical interview and collateral data d) Keeping test data and MSE separate

Answer 58

c) Synthesising results with clinical interview and collateral data Rationale: Integration creates a holistic understanding that informs intervention and planning. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 4]

Question 59

Q59: A psychologist notices they are becoming emotionally disengaged after several high-risk cases. What schema concept from Week 11 might explain this reaction? a) Maturity mode b) Detachment schema c) Resilience bias d) Survivor’s guilt

Answer 59

b) Detachment schema Rationale: Detachment is a schema-based defence that can emerge under burnout or emotional overload. Source: [Lecture 11 – Schema and Professional Wellbeing]

Question 60

Q60: What is a recommended strategy for psychologists to prevent burnout and maintain wellbeing? a) Avoid working with high-risk clients b) Focus only on short-term goals c) Engage in self-reflection and schema-awareness practices d) Disconnect emotionally from therapeutic work

Answer 60

c) Engage in self-reflection and schema-awareness practices Rationale: Understanding personal vulnerabilities and practicing self-care supports longevity in the profession. Source: [Lecture 11 + APS Wellbeing Resources]

Question 61

Q61: A psychologist working with a First Nations client wants to assess trauma symptoms. The client agrees but appears hesitant and disengaged during the process. What should the psychologist do next? a) Continue with the measure as consent was given b) Pause and re-evaluate whether the measure is culturally appropriate c) Explain the test questions more clearly d) Refer the client to a cultural liaison

Answer 61

b) Pause and re-evaluate whether the measure is culturally appropriate Rationale: Even with consent, observable discomfort may signal cultural misalignment; reassessment is ethical. Source: [Routledge Handbook – Ch. 2; Lecture 4]

Question 62

Q62: Which of the following best reflects ethical competence in using psychometric tools? a) Using any tool that appears to work clinically b) Using tools validated in peer-reviewed journals regardless of population c) Selecting tools based on client needs, training, and psychometric fit d) Using older tools that colleagues recommend

Answer 62

c) Selecting tools based on client needs, training, and psychometric fit Rationale: APS Code requires appropriate training, population-specific application, and reliability evidence. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 2; APS Ethics B.1.2]

Question 63

Q63: A psychologist reports a complex case to a legal tribunal. They include their own diagnostic impressions without formal testing. What is the ethical issue here? a) Breaching the APS code by providing diagnosis at all b) Violating client autonomy c) Reporting impressions without formal assessment evidence d) Using too much jargon

Answer 63

c) Reporting impressions without formal assessment evidence Rationale: Ethics require psychologists to separate data from interpretation and ground conclusions in evidence. Source: [Lecture 9 – Report Writing; APS Code C.2.3]

Question 64

Q64: A psychologist uses a highly structured, empirically supported tool with a client from a refugee background. The client shows distress during questions about family. What should the psychologist do? a) Finish the tool to preserve integrity b) Discontinue and process the client's emotional response c) Mark the questions as incomplete d) Have the client return after calming down

Answer 64

b) Discontinue and process the client's emotional response Rationale: Human-centered practice must take precedence over procedural consistency when distress is evident. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 1; APS Ethics Principle A]

Question 65

Q65: Which of the following is a psychometric reason to avoid modifying a validated test item during cross-cultural assessment? a) Modified items can confuse the administrator b) It invalidates the psychometric properties of the tool c) It offends the original authors d) It shortens the test and makes scoring harder

Answer 65

b) It invalidates the psychometric properties of the tool Rationale: Changing wording affects reliability, standardization, and interpretation norms. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3]

Question 66

Q66: A client makes a cultural comment during a test that the psychologist doesn’t understand. The psychologist decides to skip it. What is the best alternative? a) Ignore it — the test is standardised b) Note the comment and ask a supervisor for input c) Replace the test with one for different cultural groups d) End testing to preserve rapport

Answer 66

b) Note the comment and ask a supervisor for input Rationale: Cultural ambiguity should be explored, not ignored, to preserve interpretive accuracy. Source: [Fernández & Abe, 2020; APS Guidelines]

Question 67

Q67: What ethical risk is most associated with automated scoring and interpretation systems in psychological assessment? a) They are too fast b) They may replace the psychologist’s clinical judgment c) They make reports too long d) They are harder to use than paper scoring

Answer 67

b) They may replace the psychologist’s clinical judgment Rationale: APS Ethics requires psychologists to maintain interpretive oversight, not defer to automation. Source: [Week 7 – AI and Clinical Practice]

Question 68

Q68: Which of the following best distinguishes a schema mode from a trait? a) Modes are only seen in children b) Traits are emotional, modes are rational c) Modes are shifting emotional-cognitive states activated by context d) Traits are temporary, modes are fixed

Answer 68

c) Modes are shifting emotional-cognitive states activated by context Rationale: Modes represent active schemas-in-motion and are sensitive to situational triggers. Source: [Lecture 11 – Schema Theory]

Question 69

Q69: A psychologist receives a formal complaint from a client claiming the test was inappropriate. What is the best ethical response? a) Review the complaint and seek supervision b) Avoid replying until more information is available c) Deny the complaint and close the case d) Remove the report from the client’s file

Answer 69

a) Review the complaint and seek supervision Rationale: Ethical practice involves transparency, professional accountability, and reflective review. Source: [APS Ethical Guidelines – Complaints]

Question 70

Q70: What is the primary danger of using unvalidated cultural screening tools in clinical practice? a) They take too long to administer b) They may generate data that appear scientific but lack validity c) Clients will dislike them d) They are harder to score manually

Answer 70

b) They may generate data that appear scientific but lack validity Rationale: Unvalidated tools risk misleading interpretations and inappropriate clinical decisions. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 3; Routledge Handbook]

Question 71

Q71: A psychologist is conducting an assessment with a 17-year-old Aboriginal youth in a group home. The youth is quiet and avoids eye contact. The staff urge the psychologist to “just get the results” for school funding purposes. What is the most ethical action? a) Proceed with the testing to avoid delaying the process b) Explain to staff that results may be invalid if rapport isn’t established c) Test the youth and omit the data if responses seem incomplete d) Refer the youth back to the general practitioner

Answer 71

b) Explain to staff that results may be invalid if rapport isn’t established Rationale: Ethical and culturally competent practice requires prioritising assessment validity and relational safety over institutional pressure. Source: [Lecture 4 + APS Ethical Guidelines; Routledge Handbook]

Question 72

Q72: A psychologist writes a report using clinical language such as “externalising behaviour,” “limited insight,” and “poor emotional regulation.” It’s for a parent with low literacy. What’s the issue? a) The language may alienate the client and violate the ethical duty of clarity b) These are standard terms and acceptable in any report c) The parent should seek help interpreting the report d) No issue – the report is a clinical document only

Answer 72

a) The language may alienate the client and violate the ethical duty of clarity Rationale: Reports must be understandable to the intended audience; failure to do so breaches APS Code C.2.2. Source: [Lecture 8 – Report Writing; APS Code of Ethics]

Question 73

Q73: A psychologist chooses not to explore cultural background during intake, reasoning that “we’re all human” and avoiding labels reduces bias. What principle is being violated? a) Integrity b) Cultural safety and respect c) Confidentiality d) Justice

Answer 73

b) Cultural safety and respect Rationale: Ignoring culture denies client experience and violates ethical responsibility to understand context. Source: [Routledge Handbook; APS Ethical Guidelines – Working with Diversity]

Question 74

Q74: A client reports suicidal ideation without a plan or intent. The psychologist documents the session thoroughly but doesn’t take further action. Days later, the client is hospitalised. What is the likely issue? a) The psychologist violated confidentiality b) Documentation was insufficient c) Duty of care may not have been met despite proper notes d) The client gave mixed signals

Answer 74

c) Duty of care may not have been met despite proper notes Rationale: Recording risk is not enough; reasonable preventative action is required when risk is foreseeable. Source: [APS Guidelines – Managing Risk; Lecture 7]

Question 75

Q75: A psychologist uses an IQ test with a newly arrived refugee child with no interpreter. They justify it by saying they’ve “done this before and it usually works out.” What is the problem? a) The test may not be reliable across languages b) This is common in schools c) Refugee children are often behind academically anyway d) The psychologist is trying to help under pressure

Answer 75

a) The test may not be reliable across languages Rationale: Standardisation and cultural appropriateness are compromised without language support. Source: [Wright, Ch. 2; APS Ethics Principle B]

Question 76

Q76: A team member in a multidisciplinary setting consistently ignores the psychologist’s feedback. The psychologist begins minimising their own contributions. What schema mode may be activating? a) Detached Protector b) Punitive Parent c) Healthy Adult d) Vulnerable Child

Answer 76

a) Detached Protector Rationale: Emotional withdrawal in response to devaluation reflects avoidant schema coping. Source: [Lecture 11 – Schema Modes in Professional Life]

Question 77

Q77: A psychologist in private practice creates an AI chatbot that offers automated mental health suggestions. They don’t disclose that the content is AI-generated. What ethical breach is most apparent? a) Breach of confidentiality b) Violation of informed consent and transparency c) Using technology without a license d) Misuse of APS funding

Answer 77

b) Violation of informed consent and transparency Rationale: Clients must be informed when responses are not generated by a human therapist. Source: [Week 7 Readings – Ethics of AI in Practice]

Question 78

Q78: A student psychologist is asked to administer a culturally unfamiliar test in their placement but feels untrained. Their supervisor encourages them to try anyway. What is the most ethical decision? a) Follow supervisor instructions – they are responsible b) Proceed with the test and reflect afterward c) Decline and discuss alternative actions with supervisor d) Ask a peer for help scoring the test

Answer 78

c) Decline and discuss alternative actions with supervisor Rationale: Practicing within competence is required, and students share responsibility for ethical action. Source: [APS Code of Ethics – Competence; Wright Ch. 2]

Question 79

Q79: A psychologist is working with an LGBTQ+ client who has experienced religious trauma. The psychologist tries to maintain neutrality by avoiding topics of faith. What risk does this pose? a) The psychologist could be accused of proselytising b) The client may assume their identity is not welcome c) The psychologist is ethically required to avoid religious issues d) The client should be referred to a spiritual advisor

Answer 79

b) The client may assume their identity is not welcome Rationale: Avoidance can imply judgment or rejection; ethical practice requires openness and cultural humility. Source: [Routledge Handbook; APS Guidelines]

Question 80

Q80: A psychologist reviews the results of three different assessments for a client and finds conflicting data. What is the most ethical and professionally sound next step? a) Select the test with the strongest psychometrics and discard the others b) Average the scores and use the mean c) Integrate findings and explore reasons for divergence d) Choose the result that supports the referral question

Answer 80

c) Integrate findings and explore reasons for divergence Rationale: Divergent data must be interpreted in context — integration is essential to formulation. Source: [Wright, 2021, Ch. 4 – Data Integration]