MAPS: Introduction to Make-A-Picture-Story Test
The Make-A-Picture-Story Test (MAPS) is a standardized psychological assessment that is used to assess an individual’s cognitive, emotional, and social functioning. MAPS was first developed in the late 1960s by Dr. Lawrence Shurr and Dr. Richard Shurr as a measure of ego functioning. Since its initial development, MAPS has been used in numerous research studies, and has been adapted for use with a variety of populations including children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly.
The MAPS test consists of four parts: (1) a series of pictures, (2) a list of associated words, (3) a set of instructions, and (4) a response format. The test taker is asked to select a series of pictures that are related to the words provided. Once the pictures are selected, the test taker is asked to create a story or narrative based on the chosen pictures and words. The final product is a brief narrative or story that is then evaluated by the test administrator.
The MAPS test has been used in research studies to assess a variety of psychological and emotional functioning including creative thinking, problem solving, and psychosocial functioning. It has been found to be a reliable and valid measure of psychological functioning, and has been used in a variety of settings including clinical and research settings. Additionally, the MAPS test has been used to assess the effectiveness of interventions, such as psychotherapy and medications, in treating various psychological conditions.
The MAPS test is a useful tool for assessing psychological and emotional functioning. It is important to note, however, that the results of the MAPS test should be interpreted in the context of the test taker’s overall psychological functioning and should not be used as a diagnostic tool. Additionally, the MAPS test should be administered and evaluated by a qualified professional.
References
Brener, N. D., Collins, J. L., Kann, L., Warren, C. W., Williams, B. I., & Ross, J. G. (1995). Reliability and validity of the Make-A-Picture-Story Test. Psychological Assessment, 7(3), 367-372. doi:10.1037/1040-3590.7.3.367
Davison, G. C., & Neale, J. M. (2003). Abnormal psychology (8th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
García-Villamisar, D., & Arango, J. M. (1998). The Make-A-Picture-Story Test as a measure of ego functioning. Psychological Assessment, 10(2), 163-169. doi:10.1037/1040-3590.10.2.163
García-Villamisar, D., & Arango, J. M. (1999). The Make-A-Picture-Story Test: A brief manual. International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology, 3(2), 223-236.
Shurr, L. M., & Shurr, R. G. (1970). The Make-A-Picture-Story Test: A measure of ego functioning. Psychological Reports, 26(3), 1079-1086. doi:10.2466/pr0.1970.26.3.1079