Wartegg test: what it is, how it is used and interpreted

If you are in the middle of a job search and are preparing to have selection events, it will be very useful for you to familiarize yourself with some of the techniques present in these scenarios, for example, the Wartegg test.

This is a fairly common test in job interviews, although it is also used in the clinical area. We invite you to explore in this article the application method and what points the evaluator will focus on to interpret your graphs.

What is the Wartegg test?

It is a technique projective what seeks to explore personality and cognitive processes in a unique way. This graphic test, developed by Ehrig Wartegg, uses a series of eight boxes, each with a particular stimulus, which the individual completes with drawings.

The basis of the evaluation is that by using graphics as a non-verbal method of communication, personal details, feelings and what is in the subconscious of the person carrying it out are revealed.

The results of the exam are associated with the characteristics of the position for which the person aspires, thus outlining how the candidate is capable of constructing his reality based on his experiences and what he understands as an individual.

What does the Wartegg test measure?

Although it does not evaluate psychological dimensions directly and specifically, the interpretation of the results provides analysts with valuable information on various areas.

The test investigates aspects such as creativity, social adaptation and the capacity for association, analysis and synthesis, allowing a deeper understanding of the person evaluated.

Application

This psychotechnical test is widely used in the field of organizational psychology, both in the development and in personnel selection processes. In combination with other analyses, This evaluation is useful in determining the suitability of a candidate in a specific position.

Administration can be carried out by both clinical and business psychologists, as well as human resources professionals. Its execution usually does not last more than 30 minutes.

The evaluator presents the instruction as follows: «Someone began to draw in these eight paintings, but did not finish. Your task is to complete these drawings, integrating what is already present in each one. You don’t have to worry about artistic quality. You can choose the order by assigning sequence numbers.

When completing the graphics, the applicant must title them, specify the one they liked the most and which one they found easier or more difficult. This is a way to know the personal assessment of the task.

How is the Wartegg test interpreted?

This test is useful in psychological evaluation, but it must be used together with different tools, such as an interview, for example. Thus, The interpretation of the Wartegg test requires a comprehensive and expert approach. In this case, two specific and complementary perspectives are addressed:

• Constitutional analysis: analyzes how constitutional aspects, such as types of temperament, thinking styles and emotional areas, are reflected in the drawings made in the paintings.
• Situational analysis: It focuses on paying attention to how the person performs while taking the test, observing their approach and details that give an immediate idea of ​​their response style and adaptability. For example, following order could indicate a liking for organization and structure; while changing the sequence would suggest a certain rebellion.

When the evaluator interprets the test, he must consider several factors for a complete and accurate decoding. In the first instance, Look at the way the subject uses space, what his stroke is like and the size of his drawings.

On the other hand, pay attention to how he expresses emotions, which is revealed from the details. It also looks at the relationships between things or people, to better understand their social attitude. At the same time, to find out how to solve their problems, we see if they are able to be creative by completing the boxes.

Each of the fields poses a specific challenge that is transmitted through the stimulus that is presented.

Table 1

Picture 1 shows a small dot, located right in the center. This symbol barely provides support to continue drawing. This being the case, the person finds themselves at the crossroads of multiple possibilities, which can generate pressure, especially if they do not have solid self-esteem.

So, This graph represents the self-concept, that is, how the person evaluated sees themselves. When interpreting this space, attention is paid to whether the individual keeps the point as the center of his or her own drawing (for example, creating a sun or a flower) or not. The way you include (or not) the point, whether multiplying it, expanding it, or leaving it intact, reveals different meanings.

Table 2

On the upper left side you can see a not very extensive wavy line. This field evaluates elements of affectivity, such as empathy and sensitivity. Therefore, it is common for those evaluated to choose to draw human figures, animals or elements related to nature.

Table 3

In the third box you can see two straight vertical lines that vary in length, ordered from smallest to largest. They are rigid and monotonous strokes, challenging the individual to overcome routine and change the motif. This sector It symbolizes ambitions, goals and the desire to excel, or the lack thereof.

Do you choose to extend the lines upwards? Do you deny the stimulus and decide to draw figures unrelated to the desire to progress? These are some of the questions that the evaluator asks when analyzing this field.

Table 4

At the beginning of the assessment, in the fourth field, there is only a small dark square in the upper right corner. It is a heavy stimulus, not very dynamic and unexpected, which It seeks to awaken a certain level of anxiety, inviting action.

Such a picture often receives special attention, since reveals how the person approaches work conflicts. From these geometric figures, the expert interprets unconscious thoughts and resources. The answers provide insights about whether the individual faces problems in a childish way, dependentor if, for example, you take a strategic and calculating approach.

Table 5

Two lines perpendicular to each other are visualized on the lower left side, and their crossing would give rise to an X. This stimulus then presents an adversity. Drawing in this field It helps to know the impulses and the possibility of overcoming obstacles, as well as the vital energy of the candidate.

Table 6

In the sixth quadrant, two straight lines separated from each other are observed, although with a clear possibility of union. One of them is vertical and the other is horizontal. This box measures elements of reasoning, such as the ability to associate, analyze, and synthesize.

To interpret this field, the professional asks himself if he integrates the lines into the same graph or makes two or more different drawings? Is there a connection of ideas? Does it associate, synthesize?

Table 7

This is formed by a series of points that create a small curve, suggesting a Y. Evaluate the attitude interpersonalopenness, the possibility of working as a team and other social skills. On the other hand, it symbolizes sexual maturity.

A relevant aspect of the seventh frame is whether the person, when facing the stimulus, chooses to represent a real, delicate and soft object, such as flowers, fruits or a necklace. Or if, on the contrary, you choose to draw heavy elements, such as a cart wheel, or more conflictive situations, such as a grenade.

Table 8

In the eighth space there is an arch at the top that symbolizes authority. The circular shape projects security and, although it is accepted by the individual, encourages him to free himself from it. In this last quadrant, it is common for the people evaluated to depict umbrellas, hats, rainbows or a full moon.

The graphic offers a clearer look at aspects related to the work area, revealing the ability to commit to a company or institution, as well as compliance with regulations, thereby indicating the degree of autonomy.

A point to highlight is that some professionals question the validity and reliability of the test, since, as it is a projective test, its decoding is influenced by subjective aspects of the person who administers it.

How to solve it correctly?

If you are about to take the test as part of your psychotechnical evaluation, it is normal that you have doubts about what to draw or how to approach it appropriately. But The first thing you have to know is that there are no right or wrong answers.

More than knowing how to answer the Wartegg test well, keep in mind that the purpose of this test is to reveal aspects of your personality and cognitive processes, not to judge you as a person.

In the work context, they are looking to determine if your profile coincide with the one they search for. Therefore, there is no point in worrying and deciding in advance what you will answer. The important thing is that you avoid unnecessary complications and that try keep calm.

Don’t overanalyze what you do, appeal to common sense. Although we cannot provide you with an example of what the test would look like when solved correctly with each of its 8 frames, it is possible to give you general advice so that you can face the task with greater confidence:

• Don’t worry about artistic quality
• Trust your answers and avoid deleting or crossing out
• Listen carefully to the slogan and ask your questions
• Follow the rules and instructions that the evaluator presents to you
• Make the most of your time efficiently, move forward rhythm convenient

One more tool to explore personality

By using creativity and drawing, the Wartegg test reveals emotional and cognitive aspects in a non-intrusive way. This approach allows us to detect psychological traits and behavioral patterns that could go unnoticed in other evaluations.

Although, we insist, the interpretation should not be carried out in isolation, but rather integrated with other data and considering the general context.

Therefore, whether you are evaluating or being evaluated, it is crucial to understand that this test It is just one of the several ways to know elements of personality, and should not be considered the only truth or definitive conclusion.

The entry Wartegg Test: what it is, how it is used and interpreted was first published in Psycom.Blog.

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