Psychometric testing and assessment

What are psychometric assessments?

Psychometric assessments are the use of standardized assessment tools specifically designed to measure various aspects of psychological development, abilities, behaviour, and emotions. These tests play a crucial role in understanding and identifying potential psychological or developmental issues, academic strengths and weaknesses, and other factors that may impact a young individual's well-being and growth.

At the Younger Years we use standardised assessments as a way to gain further understanding of a child or young person's strengths and needs. Assessments are used to explore overall high ability (i.e. 'giftedness'), as well as specific learning needs (e.g. dyslexia or dyscalculia) or more general insight into overall development to direct further support.  Cognitive (intellectual) assessments and assessments of educational attainment may be used. Sometimes specific further assessment, e.g. in relation to literacy skills or specific questionnaires, can also be helpful.  Assessments may lead to a specific diagnosis, although this is not a guaranteed outcome. It will always be a focus to provide useful and appropriate recommendations to support identified strengths and needs. 

Some common types of child and adolescent psychometric tests include:

Intelligence Tests:

These tests assess a child's cognitive abilities, including problem-solving skills, memory, and verbal and non-verbal reasoning. The most well-known intelligence test for children is the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC).

Academic Achievement Tests:

These tests evaluate a child's knowledge and proficiency in specific academic subjects, such as reading, math, and writing. They help identify areas of strength and weakness and can be valuable in educational planning and support. The most commonly used one is the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test (WIAT).

Personality and Behaviour Assessment:

These tests aim to understand a child's personality traits, social and emotional well-being, and behavioural tendencies. They can be useful in gathering information across different environments, identifying emotional or behavioural needs and guiding appropriate interventions.  Two commonly used ones are the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL) and the Conners Comprehensive Behaviour Rating Scales (Conners CBRS).

Attention and Hyperactivity Assessment:

These tests help assess attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and related behavioural issues. The Conners' 4 is widely used in this domain. 

Adaptive Behaviour Assessment:

These tests evaluate a child's ability to function independently in daily life activities, such as self-care, communication, and socialization. Two commonly used assessments are the Adaptive Behaviour Assessment System or Vinelands Adaptive Behaviour Scales.

At The Younger Years your clinician will step you through the process and fees from the very first consultation. The aim is for you to make an informed choice and collaboratively decide what assessments are required so that at the end of the process, useful information for support at home and school is received.