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Principles and Applications of Assessment in Counseling, 2d ed.

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Principles and Applications of Assessment in Counseling, second edition, by Susan C. Whiston, 2005, Belmont, CA: Thomson Brooks/Cole, 448 pages, $103.95, ISBN 0534569757.

Principles and Applications of Assessment in Counseling, second edition, consistent with the first edition, is designed for use with counselors functioning in most, if not all, clinical settings. The main purpose of Whiston's book is to provide counselors with "a sound understanding of assessment" (p. xiii), including giving them a strong foundation in understanding the principles of assessment to enable them to acquire the knowledge needed to make wise decisions concerning selecting sound, reliable, and valid assessments; an overview of the purpose and types of assessments available; and the knowledge of best practices in applying assessment results. Principles and Applications of Assessment in Counseling is divided into three major sections--Section I: Principles of Assessment; Section II: Overview of Assessment Areas; and Section III: Applications and Issues.

SECTION I: PRINCIPLES OF ASSESSMENT

This section of the book includes five chapters. Chapter 1 provides a general overview of assessment, beginning with a definition and a general description of the types of assessment tools and assessment strategies, along with historical overviews. Chapter 1 also provides readers with a foundation as to why it is essential that counselors understand the principles behind the development and use of various assessments, including why the correct application of assessment results is integral to the role of the counselor.

As in the first edition, Whiston does an excellent job of explaining complex technical terms in easy-to-understand language. Some examples in chapter 1 illustrate her points and help the reader understand how to apply the assessment principles when interpreting results. Chapter 1 also firmly states the reasons why it is important for counselors to gain competency in administering and interpreting assessments. However, although some illustrative examples are provided in chapter 1 to enhance the reader's understanding of the complex and technical terms, what I did find missing were examples of score reports and case studies, which would have further enhanced the reader's understanding of the various types of assessments, the scores provided, and the interpretation of results.

Chapter 1's historical overview up to the 1990s is very complete; however, Whiston's discussion of the time frame from 2000 to the present needs to go further. Much has happened in the field of assessment since the late 1990s. Although Whiston acknowledges that a...

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