IOPC survey of test security practices and perspectives of licensed psychologists.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the positions, policies, and practices regarding test security among psychologists and neuropsychologists who engage in clinical and forensic assessment practice. Methods: The Inter-Organizational Practice Committee (IOPC) undertook a survey of licensed practitioners who regularly conduct neuropsychological and psychological testing. An online survey captured respondent data between October and December 2023. Results: Once duplicates and individuals with non-confirmable psychology licensure were removed, 628 licensed psychologist respondents comprised the sample, which consisted primarily of individuals who identify as neuropsychologists. Respondents overwhelmingly favored keeping test materials secure and not divulging information to attorneys (≥98.%). There was near consensus (94.5%) that a protective order issued by a judge is not sufficient to ensure test security. Conclusion: The current survey assessing the practices and perspectives of neuropsychologists and psychologists who engage in testing represents the largest known canvas of the discipline examining test security. Findings indicate that individuals who engage in such testing expressed strong agreement regarding the necessity of protecting against release of information that would threaten future validity of test usage. Notably, even protective orders issued by a judge, which are often cited by third parties in favor of releasing information, are not viewed by practitioners as adequately protective. Rather, neuropsychologists and practitioners administering psychological testing endorse a high degree of agreement regarding the critical importance in maintaining the clinical and scientific rigor upon which psychology and neuropsychology rely.