A Comprehensive Projective Alternative to the TAT

Abstract

Murray's TAT consists primarily of pictures portraying characters in low-keyed, gloomy situations lacking in vibrance and physical activity. An alternative thematic apperception test was constructed by selecting pictures from the Family of Man photo essay collection. Pictures were selected to provide more positively toned, active scenes. Eight college students told stories to 30 TAT pictures and 30 pictures from the new test. Quantitative scoring of the stories revealed that the new test provided a balance of positive and negatively toned stories and a variety of action and energy levels for the main character. The TAT, on the other hand, elicited predominately negatively toned and low energy stories. The results suggest the successful constructing of a more comprehensive alternative to the TAT.