Question

You are a psychologist assessing the personality and emotional state of a new client using projective techniques. You decide to use the Sentence Completion Test and Draw-a-Person Test. Describe how you would use these tests and explain what kind of information you might gain from each test.

Answer 1

As a psychologist, while evaluating a new client’s personality and emotional condition, projective techniques such as the Sentence Completion Test (SCT) and the Draw-a-Person Test (DAP) can offer meaningful insight into the client’s inner thoughts and feelings. These tools are particularly helpful when clients find it difficult to express themselves openly or are unaware of their deeper emotional issues.

In the Sentence Completion Test, the client is given unfinished sentences like “I feel happy when...”, “My father always...”, or “I wish I could...”, and is asked to complete them spontaneously. Such responses often reveal hidden emotions, attitudes, desires, fears, and conflicts. Repeated patterns or themes, such as insecurity or sadness, may indicate unresolved emotional problems or low self-esteem.

The Draw-a-Person Test is a non-verbal method where the client is asked to draw a person. The drawing is analysed based on size, placement, detail, and the presence or emphasis of features. These aspects may reflect self-concept, emotional conflicts, body image, or relationship concerns.

Together, SCT and DAP provide a comprehensive view of the client’s personality by combining verbal expression with symbolic projection, helping guide effective therapeutic planning.