When someone is on long-term leave or repeatedly gets stuck in their work, a Psychiatric examination can provide Psychiatric examination clarity. As part of such an evaluation, a personality assessment can be used to gain deeper insight. But what exactly does that entail? Psychiatrist Rosemarie Hondius explains how this assessment is conducted in practice and what it can mean for the employee and the (occupational) physician.
What is a psychiatric examination?
“During a Psychiatric examination , we Psychiatric examination what is happening from a psychiatric perspective within a specific context,” explains Rosemarie. This differs from a therapeutic relationship. “As a treating psychiatrist, you rely primarily on what someone tells you, and treatment is the focus. In an expert assessment, we evaluate more broadly and operate from a different, neutral role that isn’t focused on recovery and treatment.” The expert assessment is often requested by a (company) physician, but can also be part of a legal or disability proceedings.
When should a personality assessment be used?
A personality assessment is a supplementary evaluation. “If there are indications that the issues have been ongoing for some time or that someone keeps relapsing, we take a broader look at their personality,” Rosemarie explains. “You examine character traits, behavioral patterns, and vulnerabilities. That can help explain why treatments sometimes have insufficient effect.” While psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety or depression are often episodic, a personality assessment focuses on deeper, long-term patterns that often originated in childhood.
What exactly are we researching?
At Sazyes, we use a structured interview (STiP-5). This assesses, among other things, self-image and self-esteem, relationships with others, emotional regulation, and self-management. “Can someone view themselves realistically? How do they handle criticism? Are they able to set and stick to goals? How are emotions regulated?” Rosemarie summarizes. “We don’t just identify whether certain characteristics are present, but also to what extent. That nuance is important for providing appropriate advice.” In addition, a comprehensive biographical history is taken, covering topics such as upbringing, school years, and any significant life events. We also often administer a questionnaire to better assess personality traits.
Safety and Care
Because the study involves personal information, a safe environment is essential. “We always start by explaining the context: why are we here? Does the participant understand the goal the study? I also ask how they’re feeling,” says Rosemarie. “All information is confidential and is shared only with the requesting (company) physician.”
During the interview, we not only listen to what the person has to say, but also observe how they come across. “Behavior, demeanor, and interaction provide additional information. This ensures that the investigation is thorough and comprehensive.”
What are the benefits?
A personality assessment provides insight into a person’s functioning and any limitations they may have. It helps the (occupational) physician translate these findings into an assessment of work capacity and appropriate recommendations. In legal proceedings (such as an objection, appeal, or court case), the assessment can also serve as supporting evidence for review by legal professionals and insurers.
Sometimes it’s a personality disorder, and sometimes it involves certain traits or vulnerabilities. “The difference lies in the severity, duration, and degree of dysfunction,” Rosemarie explains. The findings provide guidance for next steps: treatment focused on personality, learning healthy coping strategies, or strengthening self-awareness. “People are often looking for an explanation as to why they keep getting stuck. Clarity can be helpful in such cases.”
Want to know more?
Would you like to learn more about the personality assessment or the opportunities available at Sazyes? Please feel free to contact us.
