Abstract
Orientation: Psychological tests are essential tools for psychologists in the decision making process in many countries all around the world, however standards of practice and test use vary considerably between countries. In the European context, there have been various studies aimed at addressing the testing attitudes and practices of psychological and psychometric test users and the implications on test development. There has been research within countries in Africa on testing attitudes and practices, however a benchmark study that can be used as a baseline for comparison between African countries and between the African and European contexts has never been implemented. Research purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the testing attitudes and practices of psychology practitioners within the African context to enable comparison with testing attitudes and practices within the European context. In addition, the aim was to contribute towards a better understanding of the state of psychological testing worldwide. Motivation for the study: Despite the widespread use, psychological tests continue to receive critique regarding potential misuse and incorrect application by unqualified test users. Given contextual differences between countries within Europe and Africa it was deemed important to get a better understanding of the weaknesses and challenges as perceived by practitioners and to put measures in place to advance test use and mitigate associated risks. The outcome of the study could further guide the actions and measures taken by regulatory bodies, professional associations and other stakeholders. Research design: A quantitative, cross-sectional research design using snowballing as sampling technique was adopted to obtain data at a single point in time regarding current testing attitudes and practices within the African context. The research utilised a web-based survey design based on the European Federation of Psychologists’ Associations Questionnaire on Test Attitudes of Psychologists (EQTAP) that was adapted from similar studies conducted in European countries to enable comparisons across countries. The African sample consisted of psychological professionals from different domains of psychology within the respective countries (South Africa, Nigeria, Namibia, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Uganda). The Psychological Societies identified in the respective countries, emailed the link to the web-based survey to their membership. Analyses/results were restricted to South Africa and Nigeria due to low response rates from the other countries...
M.Com.