Although the clinical interview is the foundation of assessment for individuals presenting with psychological problems (Edwards & Young, chapter 23, this volume), information from self-report scales provides valuable complementary information. Many self-report scales developed in North America and Britain are used regularly in South Africa with clients from a spectrum of cultural backgrounds. Some have been translated into South African languages, while others may be translated on the spot by the clinician or an assistant during the assessment process. Yet translation of scales, or importing them into cultural contexts different from those in which they were developed and validated, poses a number of problems that may be sufficient to throw doubt on their validity. There has been limited research on this in South Africa, and this chapter will examine the problems involved and the conclusions that can be drawn from existing research with respect to the value in local clinical settings of self-report scales developed overseas.
Details
Title
Assessment and monitoring of symptoms in the treatment of psychological problems
Authors/Creators
C. Young
D. Edwards
Contributors
S. Laher (Editor)
K. Cockcroft (Editor)
Publication Details
Psychological Assessment in South Africa, pp.307-319