Utilization of Non-Test and Self-Report Data in Intake Counseling Procedures.

Several techniques and types of non-test data are available to a counselor prior to and during the intake interview. In an academic setting before the interview, there are six basic techniques or sources for gathering non-test data about clients. These are: (1) personal data blank, (2) autobiography, (3) questionnaire, (4) rating scale, (5) anecdotal record, and (6) cumulative records. During the interview, the counselor is himself the means for gathering information about the client. Techniques available to the counselors are: (1) statements about self, and (2) observations of the client's behavior. Research related to these techniques of non-test and self-report data is presented. Implications for practice include: (1) counselors should be familiar with the above techniques, (2) there is much non-test data available on college campus that counselors could use, and (3) counselors should be aware of the limitations of this data. Questions to be answered include those on which techniques are most accurate, what kind of information can best be gathered, and what is the format of each technique. (Author/KJ)