A process dissociation approach to objective-projective test score interrelationships.
Even when self-report and projective measures of a given trait or motive both predict theoretically related features of behavior, scores on the 2 tests correlate modestly with each other. This article describes a process dissociation framework for personality assessment, derived from research on implicit memory and learning, which can resolve these ostensibly conflicting results. Research on interpersonal dependency is used to illustrate 3 key steps in the process dissociation approach: (a) converging behavioral predictions, (b) modest test score intercorrelations, and (c) delineation of variables that differentially affect self-report and projective test scores. Implications of the process dissociation framework for personality assessment and test development are discussed.
Bornstein
Robert F
RF
Department of Psychology, Gettysburg College, PA 17325, USA. bbornste@gettysburg.edu
D003858:Dependency, Psychological; D008568:Memory; D010552:Personality Assessment; D010556:Personality Tests; D011385:Projection; D012107:Research Design / Q000592:standards; D012647:Self-Assessment