| The purpose of this research was (1) to develop a theological framework in which to understand the use of psychological assessment in clergy selection decisions in a religious organization and (2) to determine the evaluability of psychological assessment programs in The United Methodist Church.;The theological framework was developed through library research. Two theological concepts were identified that inform the use of psychological assessment in a religious organization: ecclesiology and vocation. Each concept was explored separately. The interface between the two concepts was elaborated at the decision point of clergy selection. Use of psychological assessment was understood as an evaluative tool within the context of both ecclesiology and vocation.;In order to determine the evaluability of psychological assessment programs, seven different selection Boards and their clergy applicants in three different geographical regions, using four representative programs of psychological assessment, were included in the research (N = 359). The research covered selection activity in 1977-1980. Interviews, questionnaires, program documents evaluation and participant observation were used to collect data. Data was analyzed according to two predetermined criteria for determining evaluability.;Data indicated that issues related to clergy selection, as well as to the use of psychological assessment, were similar regardless of the differences in geographical region or psychological assessment programs used. There was agreement as to selection criteria, the importance of psychological assessment in relationship to other selection methods employed, and similar problems related to the process and purpose of psychological assessment.;Results indicate that there are agreed upon measures of psychological assessment activities and objectives by decision makers. Further, there are agreed upon plausible, testable assumptions linking program activities to outcomes and affects. Thus programs of psychological assessment as adjunctive to clergy selection processes in The United Methodist Church are amenable to evaluation. |
