ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Psychological self-assessment scales are frequently used in expert investigations of psychological disorders. At the same time the validity of these scales in this particular area of use has scarcely been reviewed. The criterion validity of selected self-assessment scales is examined. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 159 subjects participated in the study. Self-assessment scales to determine trait character and state variables were used (FIP-R, SVF, STAI, BDI, B-L, IES-R, FDS). Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms determined in accordance with DSM-IV-TR and the clinically determined psychopathological findings were the external criteria. RESULTS: The study showed that two subscales of the SVF and the age of the test subjects represent significant predictors for the diagnosis of PTSD supported by DSM-IV-TR. One FPI-R and one SVF subscale have a significant relationship to the psychopathological findings. Of the state variables which were used only BDI displayed a significant relationship to the psychopathological findings. CONCLUSION: Some of the reviewed trait variables also have sufficient criterion validity for expert assessments. Self-appraisal scales which cover current psychopathological complaints should only be evaluated with reservations.
Subject(s)
Mental Disorders/diagnosis , Mental Disorders/psychology , Personality Inventory , Psychometrics/methods , Female , Germany/epidemiology , Humans , Male , Mental Disorders/epidemiology , Middle Aged , Prevalence , Reproducibility of Results , Sensitivity and SpecificityABSTRACT
Since the end of the 1970s, computers have been used in neuropsychological rehabilitation. This article points out the possibilities, as well as the limits in using computers with the elderly, and is focused on their particular needs. Furthermore, indications are listed whereby computers in neuropsychological therapy in Albertinen-Haus, Hamburg, FRG, have been applied. The need for a neuropsychological diagnostic is shown and illustrated with test examples. Finally, four individual case studies are discussed.