Why Would Someone Fail a Psychological Test?

Psychological tests or psychological assessments are given for many reasons, such as to measure intelligence, brain function, and personality or to find a suitable career. Nothing is perfect and there are reasons why people fail these tests. While the reasons given for failing a psychological test are many, there is really only one reason: human error.

Poor Interpretation of Results

• Psychological tests are reviewed by a licensed psychologist. Counselors need to take specialized courses, should be supervised and are usually only qualified to give occupational tests or achievement and aptitudes tests.

Unqualified Administrator

• Psychological tests are given and interpreted by a psychologist or counselor who has taken the time to be properly trained. Improper training can influence both the test and the interpretation of the results.

The Test Was Not Accurate

• Standardized psychological assessment tests are copyrighted by the test publishers and protected to prevent fraud. Tests found online, for instance, are not standardized and the results should not be considered accurate.

Untruthfulness

• There are indicator questions built into almost every psychological test to bring attention to deception. When enough of these indicators are triggered, the applicant may fail to pass the test.

Parameters of Interpretation Are Too Broad

• With some tests, such as the Rorschach or “inkblots” test for instance, there is just too much room for interpretation. Two different psychologists could interpret different things from the same person taking the test.