Personality Tests

According to the dictionary, a personality test is a standardized diagnostic instrument (test) that records non-cognitive traits (e. g. achievement motivation, conscientiousness or interests) as clearly defined dimensions or factors. Personality tests are used in different domains, from psychological assessments to job interviews or even when joining military institutions. The main purpose of personality tests is to identify different characteristics of the subject and compare them against a common and objective information database.

Personality tests as a screening method

Some job interviews require the applicant to take physical tests but also different forms of personality tests that might identify any potential mental problems. This is highly important in institutions that rely on the judgment of their employees to carry out tasks that affect a large percentage of the population (hospitals, military institutions, government bureaus). There are several personality test types available, some shorter than others, others more complex. A complete personality test may take 1-2 hours to take and can consist of over 500 YES or NO questions. Most of the questions are repeated every 30 or 40 questions, being defined as test questions by the experts – they are meant to test the level of sincerity of the tested subject. Here is en excerpt taken form a standard personality test:

· You do your best to complete a task on time
YES NO

· You are strongly touched by the stories about people's troubles
YES NO

· You are more interested in a general idea than in the details of its realization
YES NO

· Strict observance of the established rules is likely to prevent a good outcome
YES NO

· Often you prefer to read a book than go to a party
YES NO

· You tend to rely on your experience rather than
on theoretical alternatives
YES NO

Accuracy and comparison issues

Throughout time, personality tests have grown more and more refined, increasing the accuracy and validity of their results. A personality test is a great tool for any employer who wishes to get to know a potential employee better, before hiring them. Interpreted by a specialized psychologist, the personality test results can bring a lot of valuable information regarding the candidate. Fitting the candidate into a certain pattern or category is done by comparison, evaluating personal characteristics and comparing them against standardized results. Fun personality tests have recently been created for mobile phones, providing individuals insight into their own personality, anytime, anywhere.

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