projective device
- noun
- /prəˈdʒɛktɪv dɪˈvaɪs/
- Specialized
:
dispositivo proyectivo
- The Rorschach inkblot test is a classic example of a projective device used in psychology.
Examples
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Unlike structured questionnaires, a projective device relies on open-ended responses to ambiguous materials.
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Clinicians sometimes use a projective device to explore subconscious aspects of a patient's personality.
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The psychologist used a projective device to assess her patients.
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Many therapists prefer projective devices for deeper insights.
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Clinicians sometimes use a projective device to explore subconscious aspects of a patient's personality.
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The Rorschach inkblot test is a classic example of a projective device used in psychology.
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Unlike structured questionnaires, a projective device relies on open-ended responses to ambiguous materials.
Synonyms
3
2.8
A test that shows what kind of person someone is
1
8.3
A way to find a person's personality by asking them about unclear pictures to show hidden feelings
1
4.2
A test with questions to find out how a person thinks, feels, and behaves
A method in psychology where people describe unclear pictures to show hidden feelings
Surface Forms
Morphology
The phrase names a technical psychological instrument whose sense ('a type of personality test') cannot be derived from the literal meanings of 'projective' (generally about projecting or representing images) and 'device' (a tool). A B1 learner who knows both words would likely interpret it as a tool that projects images or a general device, not as the specialised psychometric concept, so prior domain knowledge is required.
Etymology
Projective device comes from the idea of projective as 'project' meaning to send out and the word device meaning a tool. Imagine someone looking at an inkblot and 'projecting' their feelings onto the picture, as if they push their inner thoughts onto it. That's why a projective device is a test that helps show 'hidden' parts of a person's personality.