Description

The Woodworth Psychoneurotic Inventory is the first standardized psychological test created for the assessment of psychopathological symptoms. It was developed by Robert S. Woodworth in 1919, during World War I, with the purpose of evaluating the mental states of soldiers who were about to enlist in the United States Army.

Purpose

The main aim of the Woodworth Psychoneurotic Inventory was to identify individuals who exhibited psychopathological symptoms and prevent their admission into the armed forces, where such mental conditions could negatively affect their performance and the safety of their fellow soldiers. The test was designed to detect various forms of neurosis, such as anxiety, depression, and phobias.

Analysis

The Woodworth Psychoneurotic Inventory consists of a series of statements assessing psychopathological symptoms. Participants are asked to respond “yes” or “no” to each statement, depending on whether the statement describes their experience. The statements cover a wide range of psychological symptoms and conditions, such as:
Anxiety: Questions related to anxiety symptoms and worry.
Depression: Questions concerning mood and depressive symptoms.
Phobias: Questions about specific fears and avoidance behaviors.
Somatization: Questions concerning physical symptoms without medical explanation.
Obsessions and Compulsions: Questions about repetitive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

Scoring

Scoring of the Woodworth Psychoneurotic Inventory is done by counting the “yes” responses to each statement. The total scores are used to estimate the individual’s level of psychopathology. Higher scores indicate a greater presence of psychopathological symptoms.
Although the Woodworth Psychoneurotic Inventory was a pioneering tool for its time, modern psychometric assessment methods have evolved significantly, providing more accurate and reliable measurements.

References

Woodworth, R. S. (1919). Manual of the Woodworth Psychoneurotic Inventory.
Hathaway, S. R., & McKinley, J. C. (1943). The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory. University of Minnesota Press.
Kroenke, K., Spitzer, R. L., & Williams, J. B. W. (2001). The PHQ-9: Validity of a brief depression severity measure. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 16(9), 606–613.
Cattell, R. B. (1965). The Scientific Analysis of Personality. Penguin Books.