Test Interpretation in Vocational Counseling

A Cognitive Approach to Using Tests in Counseling

“…Any discussion of effective test interpretation is problematic because there is no consensus regarding the nature of the process. Numerous accounts of styles of test interpretation exist (e.g., Bixler & Bixler, 1946;Callis, Polmantier, & Roeber, 1955;Darley & Hagenah, 1955;Stephenson, 1963;Super, 1949;Williamson, 1939), but no substantial empirical data show one method of interpreting tests as more effective than any other. Generally, efforts to describe styles or models of test interpretation have not been profitable and may have tended to further isolate the test interpretation process from counseling.…”

“…Bordin evaluations. After considering their self-evaluation history, and Bixler (1946) and Kirk (1969) recommended that counselors encourage client participation in selecting appropriate tests. At one time, the issue of whether counselors or clients should select tests was considered quite controversial and led to several research studies (Forgy & Black, 1954;Gustad & Tuma, 1957;Seeman, 1948Seeman, , 1949.…”

A Reappraisal of Vocational Appraisal

“…It is testing-in-counseling." And throughout the client is an active participant, interacting with the counselor in both test selection and test interpretation [2,5].…”

“…The unique contribution of behavioral career counseling is the explicit delineation of counselor responses designed to modify the career behavior of the client. Among these, the most effective appear to be modeling and reinforcement [2,3], although others, such .as simulated job experiences [22], have considerable promise. These techniques can be used by the counselor with a variety of client response classes.…”

Client‐Centered Reflections on Career Decision Making

“…Well within the theoretical framework of the client-centered approach was the method of vocational counseling that Bixler and Bixler (1946) presented nearly a half century ago. Their approach was based on the firm belief in the fundamental integrity of those they assisted.…”