Computer Scoring of Inkblot Perceptions

Abstract

The present study is an attempt to develop an economically feasible mechod of computer scoring for the Free Response group version of the Holczman Inkblot Technique (HIT) (Swarrz & Holtzman, 1963). In a broader sense, an empirical dictionary of relevant scimulus words should be of use in applying some of the newer methods of verbal analysis, and in generating, quantifying, and testing new procedures and theories. Respondents are shown 45 HIT slides (1 min. each) with instr~~ctions to write their responses to each blot. These responses are punched in their alphabetic form for computer input. Computer scoring is handled by two distinct programs: ( 1 ) a Dictionary Building Program which alphabetizes, cumulates the frequencies of words and lists unique words in each sample which are not yet in its current total dictionary; and (2) a Scoring Program which looks up each word given by the respondent and summates up to 20 variables across all of his words. In addition to total scores, S's unique words (those not yet in the dictionary) and redundant words (those used more than once) are printed. The meaningfulness of the scoring rests upon pre-scoring of each word.