Role Construct Repertory Test

One of the most interesting applications of Kelly’s personal construct theory
involves the development of an assessment device, the Role Construct
Repertory Test. This test defines a role as a set of behaviors that are performed
by a person in response to the construction systems and behaviors of
others. The test itself determines the nature of a person’s system of constructs
as it is related to the significant others in that person’s life. The test
can be used as a means of evaluating progress during psychotherapy or as a
vehicle for detecting changes in interpersonal relationships.
The test involves the creation of a grid in which the person’s significant
others are listed. Examples would be self, mother, spouse, boss, friend, and
successful person. The client then considers these individuals in groups of
three provided by the therapist. The client comes up with a word that typifies
two of these individuals, and a second word that is the opposite of the
first word but typifies the third person. This procedure is followed for a
group of twenty sorts, or sets of comparisons. This enables the therapist to
determine the behaviors and thoughts of the client concerning the significant
others in her life.
One of the determinations that can be made involves the flexibility of the
client in dealing with others. That is, in listing those individuals on the grid
who possess certain positive characteristics, the therapist would examine
whether the same individuals on the grid are given credit for all the positive
characteristics listed, while a second group is always viewed negatively. This
would indicate a lack of flexibility in the client and might offer an area for
needed change in the future. 599