Changing mindsets: Psychological assessment futures in South Africa
Psychological assessment has been integral to psychology but its applicability has often been debated, especially when assessments developed in the Global North are used globally. The universalist assumptions of these assessments have been challenged, recognizing the impact of cultural differences influenced by individual, community, and broader social and political conditions on assessment. In South Africa, the history of psychological assessment reflects not only Western influence but also complicity in apartheid. Despite the significant changes that occurred in the 1990s in assessment, issues of access and distribution persist. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a swift transition to online assessments, which increased access but also highlighted and perpetuated existing inequalities. After three decades of democracy, it is crucial to reconsider the role of assessment in South Africa. This paper draws on peer-reviewed research and personal experiences to provide a historical overview of both global and local assessment practices, focusing on South Africa’s unique journey. It discusses current challenges and progress in psychological assessment, emphasizing the need for inclusion, indigenization, and innovation. The paper advocates for an agenda that prioritizes accessibility, relevance, and responsiveness to societal needs in South African psychological assessment, aiming to create a more equitable and effective system.
Prof. Sumaya Laher
Prof. Sumaya Laher is a psychologist specializing in psychometrics, cultural psychology, and mental health. Based at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa, Prof. Laher’s research focuses on the intersection of culture and psychological assessment, advocating for culturally relevant psychometric practices. She is the Editor of the African Journal of Psychological Assessment and Past President of the Psychological Society of South Africa.