Reflections about psychological assessment in Puerto Rico

Abstract

Psychological evaluations are highly required by various institutions in Puerto Rico, such as the Department of Education, the Department of Family Affairs, and the legal system, among others. Particularly in early childhood and adolescence, assessments are required to make decisions that impact the life of human beings. Given the great demand and implications of psychological evaluation within the discipline of psychology, it is meritorious a discussion about the competencies required to make assessments, the lack of culturally sensitive instruments for Puerto Ricans and the common practice of standard protocols for every referral. From their experiences as clinicians and professors, the authors reflect on those particular points, evidencing the need for a comprehensive conceptualization of the psychological assessment process from a critical perspective, addressing and considering individual differences.