Which of the following describes what diagnostic interviewing generally involves in personality assessment?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → In-depth interviewing that seeks to go beyond the replies given by the person
Option (1) A set procedure with very specific questions to compare persons objectively — Incorrect. This describes a structured interview. It follows a set procedure so that persons can be compared objectively; it does not aim to dig beneath the replies.
Option (2) In-depth interviewing that seeks to go beyond the replies given by the person — Correct. Diagnostic interviewing is in-depth interviewing. The interviewer does not stop at the answers given but seeks to go beyond the replies to understand the person.
Option (3) Rating the person's behaviour on scales given to trained judges — Incorrect. This describes ratings, another procedure of behavioural analysis. Judges place the person on given scales; no in-depth questioning is involved.
Option (4) Watching the person's interaction with family members and home visitors — Incorrect. This describes behavioural observation, as when a clinical psychologist watches a client at home. It relies on watching behaviour.
NCERT (2026-27): “Interview |