Symptom validity assessment in neuropsychology

Abstract

Purpose: The paper aims to give an introduction into symptom validity assessment (SVA) to non-experts in the field of neuropsychology. Design/methodology/approach: The analysis is based on the knowledge of the progress in this field which can be conceived as one of the most prolific developments in forensic neuropsychological assessment. Findings: By its very nature, clinical neuropsychology is a data-driven discipline, both on the level of single-case assessment and in research. In forensic contexts where secondary gain is immanent, uncooperativeness and malingering may threaten the integrity of data, so much so that no valid conclusions may be drawn from the data. Originality/value: In the last 20 years, clinical and forensic neuropsychologists have been more prominent in the development of methods to detect response distortions and to identify malingering than any other profession. In forensic contexts, neuropsychological evaluations without SVA must be considered incomplete. Clinically and forensically working psychologists should strive to have a thorough knowledge of symptom validity assessment. © Emerald Group Publishing Limited.