
Self-report inventories are generally easy to administer and cost effective. They often are called Likert scales after their developer, Rensis Likert (1932) (Figure 1).

They typically use multiple-choice items or numbered scales, which represent a range from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). Self-report inventories are a kind of objective test used to assess personality. This section explores the best known among the many different types of personality tests. Personality tests are also used in criminal cases and custody battles, and to assess psychological disorders.

Personality testing is often used for this purpose-to screen applicants for employment and job training. Of these three men, who would make the best police officer? What qualities and personality factors make someone a good police officer? What makes someone a bad or dangerous police officer?Ī police officer’s job is very high in stress, and law enforcement agencies want to make sure they hire the right people. He is trustworthy, but sometimes he has difficulty making quick decisions. He works hard, but is impulsive and drinks too much on the weekends. Mikhail is loud and boisterous, a leader.

He is a kind person, but lacks motivation. Roberto is quiet and shy, lacks self-confidence, and usually follows others. Roberto, Mikhail, and Nat are college friends and all want to be police officers.
