Microdiagnosis and Misuse of Scores and Standards

Abstract

Scores and standards derived from scores are based on several critical assumptions which are invalid in the evaluation of exceptional individuals, whether their deviancy is positive or negative. The nature of scores based on performance is examined and their inapplicability is illustrated in a variety of cases and dass situations. Improper utilization of scores may result in rigidification of evaluation procedures and dehumanization in the application of standards. Microdiagnosis is a method for the evaluation of exceptional cases which permits examination of the relevant parameters in the given case and an exploration of factors which contribute in an idiosyncratic manner to the attribute being evaluated. This method is based on an experimental-clinical model rather than on standardized procedures.