Clinical Psych Test 2 questions ch6

Why is the validity of a structured diagnostic interview difficult to assess?

Lab tests that validate mental disorder diagnoses are not available. it does not seem desirable to use a self-report inventory as a gold standard, thus comparing selfreport to strutcured doesn't test which is worng and any inconsistencies would most likely point to a problem with the self-report.

What are major issues to consider when conducting an assessment interview?

Who is referring the patient; the referral question

How should interviewers handle the issue of note-taking, audiotaping and videotaping?

audio and videotaping should be with informed consent. used when needed, dont be hesitant. note-taking is okay occasionally in short concise notes. not verbatim.

What types of reliability and validity are relevant to an evaluation of a structured interview?

content, predictive, concurrent and construct validity; inter-rater and test reliability

What is the role of rapport in interviewing, and how can interviewers enhance it?

good rapport is the primary instrument by which clinicians acheive the purpose of the interview. can be inhanced by attitue of acceptance, understanding and respect competence and empathy not prejudging.

Briefly describe the ideal physical environment in which an interview should take place

inside, private place with no furniture or pieces that may be distracting. somewhere free from interruptions, quiet, sound proof, no confronting cloths, comfortable

What are the most common types of assessment interviews?

intake-admission; case history; mental status examiniation; crisis; diagnostic

What is meant by the statement that interviewing is both an art and a science?

it is a science in that there are guidelines, correct and incorrect ways to conduct an interview. It is an art in that clinicians develop skill and better skill can yield better results.

describe mental status examination interview

looks at several factors for mental stability to determine mental status

describe crisis interview

meet problems as they occur and provide an immediate resource. Deflect potential for disaster and set up for long-term goals.

Briefly compare and contrast the following types of interview questions: open-ended, facilitative, clarifying, confronting and direct.

open-ended gives patient responsibility and latitude for responding. Facilitative encourages patient's flow of conversation. Clarifying encourages clarity or amplification. Confronting challenges inconsistencies or contradictions Direct a rapport has been established and patient is taking responsibility. it is a straight forward question

describe case-history interview

provides broad background and content in which both the patient and the problem can be placed; may use informants

How can the reliability and validity of interviews be measured?

reliability is measured by variations in scoring thresholds (pearson's intraclass correlation kappa) and validity is measuring the accuracy of the instruments we use in assessment.

What are the similarities and differences between structured and unstructured interviews?

they are both diagnostic interviews. structured interviews have a standardized set of questions while unstructured interviews have no set questions.

How can the clinician's background and values influence the interview process and outcome?

they can make the patients not as open or forthcoming. can affect interpretation of behavioral ques. can skew interpretation of answers/responses. May intimidate patients. Can bias your results making them invalid or cause different responses when questions are asked by another clinicians. (poor reliability)

What are the advantages and disadvantages of unstructured interviews?

they give clinicians a chance to use their skill. they allow clinicians to focus questions towards what they think is important. although content varies between different clinicians which gives poor reliability.

what are the advantages and disadvantages of structured interviews?

they insure all patients are asked the same question, this increases reliability. They usually have a standard way of interpretation that my make results more valid. although it is hard to test how valid a structured interview is.

describe intake-admission interviews

to determine why the patient has come to the clinic or hospital; to judge whether the agency's facilities, policies and surveys will meet the needs and expectations of the patient

describe diagnostic interview

to find illness/problem in order to establish treatment

How can we improve reliability and validity of interviews?

use structured interviews, establish rapport, communication, listen, know when to ask more questions, develop skill, be aware of patient's motivations and expectation, be aware of your own expectations, biases and values.