APA says third parties in psych evaluation allowable.

Allowing third party observers in testing situations has ignited debate among psychologists for years - with opinions differing regarding the potential threat to validity posed by their presence. Psychologists have frequently turned to the Science Directorate’s Office of Testing and Assessment for guidance concerning the appropriateness of allowing third parties (such as lawyers and parents) to be present during psychological evaluations.

The APA’s Committee on Psychological Tests and Assessment (CPTA) developed the Statement on Third Party Observers in Psychological Testing and Assessment: A Framework for Decision Making. As the title indicates, the statement was designed to “provide psychologists with information to assist them in (1) reaching a conclusion concerning the appropriateness of observation of psychological evaluations, (2) conveying the scientific and professional bases for such a conclusion, and (3) identifying options in light of such a conclusion, with sensitivity to the particular source and substance of a request for observation and the specific nature and circumstances of the assessment in question.”

After several years in development, the statement is now available at www.apa.org/science/ThirdPartyObservers.pdf or by contacting the Office of Testing and Assessment.