Psychometric assessment is an essential tool for assessing an individual's intellectual abilities and identifying cognitive specificities.
It is particularly useful in situations such as:
- School difficulties;
- Detection of High Intellectual Potential (HIP) ;
- Neurodevelopmental disorders.
This type of assessment provides a thorough understanding of strengths and weaknesses, enabling educational and therapeutic strategies to be adapted.
This article will explain what a psychometric assessment is, how it takes place, and how to choose the best qualified professional for an accurate and tailored assessment.
i What is a psychometric balance?
Psychometric balance, commonly referred to as a "test of Intellectual Quotient (IQ)", evaluates an individual's intellectual abilities. It is used to analyze the overall cognitive functioning, identifying specific strengths and vulnerabilities.
This type of assessment is essential to:
- Detect learning disabilities;
- Confirm high potential or mental efficiency ;
- Remove an intellectual disability.
Contrary to the widespread idea, this test is not limited to a simple number, but offers a thorough understanding of how a person thinks, solves problems and adapts.
The most commonly used psychometric tests in France are the Wechsler scales:
- WISC-V for children aged 6-17;
- The WPPSI for the youngest;
- WAIS for teenagers and adults.
Why take a psychometric test?
A psychometric assessment is essential in several situations:
- If your child encounters school difficulties persistent, has disorders such as dyslexia or dyspraxia;
- If you suspect high potential;
- For school guidance approaches, such as integration into specialized classes or the demand for educational facilities.
This assessment thus provides a solid basis for better accompanying the child in his/her journey, taking into account his/her particular needs. By identifying areas requiring specific support, it helps to better guide educational and therapeutic interventions, ensuring more tailored and personalized follow-up.
However, there are some negative points to pass a psychometric check. In the video below, J
How is a cognitive assessment going?
One official IQ test (psychometric balance) takes place in several key steps, each of which is important for a complete assessment.
More in this video:
- The first step isInitial maintenancewhich consists of a thorough discussion between the psychologist and you, or with the adult concerned. This exchange provides information on the family context, background, expectations and specific difficulties encountered. It is a crucial moment to clearly define the objectives of the balance sheet.
- The passing the test follows this interview. During this phase, the child or adult performs various exercises assessing memory, logical reasoning, problem solving and information management. These tests take place in a calm and standardized setting, under the supervision of the psychologist, to ensure optimal conditions.
- Lmaintenance concludes the balance sheet. The psychologist presents a detailed analysis of the results, together with a written and oral report. It explains the scores obtained and makes recommendations tailored to the needs identified. This step clarifies the assessed profile and provides concrete avenues to support the cognitive and emotional development of the person being assessed.
Who to consult for a psychometric assessment?
To pass a psychometric assessment, it is essential to consult a psychologist or a specialist neuropsychologist. Only these professionals are entitled to perform, analyse and interpret such tests.
What is the price of an intellectual efficiency test?
The price of a psychometric balance sheet generally varies between €150 and €500, depending on several factors:
- Geographical location plays an important role: tariffs may be higher in large cities.
- The psychologist's experience and specialization also influence the cost. A practitioner recognized for his/her specific expertise may charge more, often justifying this fee by the quality of the analysis provided.
This price includes various stages of the balance sheet:
- Initial interview to understand the context;
- Testing;
- The in-depth analysis of the results, as well as the drafting and rendering of a detailed report. The latter document is essential as it provides clear explanations and personalized recommendations.
However, do not rely solely on the price to assess the quality of the service. A high price does not always guarantee superior expertise, and a low price may indicate insufficient service. Always check the psychologist's qualifications and training.
FAQ
How old can we pass a psychometric check?
Psychometric checks can be made at any age. For young children (from 2 and a half years old), WPPSI is used. WISC-V is suitable for children and adolescents aged 6-17, while WAIS is designed for adults. Each test is specifically adapted to the age and profile of the person to provide an accurate assessment of his/her intellectual abilities.
Is the psychometric record reimbursed by Social Security?
No, the psychometric balance sheet is usually not reimbursed by social security. However, some mutuals can cover some of the costs according to the terms of your contract. It is advisable to inquire directly with your health supplement. In particular cases, partial care may be considered, in particular for the assessments requested in an educational or therapeutic setting.
How long does a psychometric report last?
A psychometric assessment consists of several steps and lasts on average between 2 and 3 sessions, depending on the profile assessed. Testing usually takes between 1h30 and 2 hours. Pre-interview and return of results are also necessary. In total, the process can span several weeks to allow for in-depth analysis and customized recommendations.
Should we prepare his child before a psychometric check-up?
It is not necessary to prepare your child specifically for a psychometric check-up. However, it is useful to explain that the purpose of the test is to better understand how it works and to help it. Make sure he is well rested and relaxed on the day of the test. Avoid stressful him with performance expectations: the balance sheet is not meant to judge him, but to accompany him.
Can psychometric assessment detect disorders like ADHD?
Psychometric assessment can help identify some indicators of disorders such as ADHD, but does not provide a medical diagnosis. It enables attention or memory problems to be targeted, which can lead to complementary assessments. For a complete diagnosis, a consultation with a health professional, such as a child psychiatrist, remains necessary to confirm and refine the observations made during the assessment.
