Secretive recording of neuropsychological testing and interviewing: Official position of the national academy of neuropsychology

Abstract

Neuropsychologists are occasionally asked to have neuropsychological testing observed via the presence of a third party, through one-way mirrors, or with audio or video monitoring or recording devices. The primary reasons for not allowing observation are its effect on the validity of the examination results and the security of copyrighted test materials. To overcome the problem of observer effects on the examinee's performance, some individuals have suggested that examinations be monitored or recorded without the examinee's awareness (i.e., secretly). However, secretive recording of neuropsychological interviews and testing is deceptive, which is inconsistent with ethical principles. In addition, such recording may affect the behavior of the examiner. For these reasons, neuropsychologists do not, and should not, encourage, condone, or engage in secret recording of neuropsychological interviews or testing. © 2009 Oxford University Press, All rights reserved.