The Psychology Tests (Psych) are a critical component of the SSB (Services Selection Board) selection process for aspirants aiming to join the Indian Armed Forces. These tests are designed to assess the subconscious mind of candidates to determine their suitability as future officers.
This article focuses on what psychology tests are, their importance in the SSB, common misconceptions, and the best ways to prepare. Whether you’re preparing for NDA, CDS, AFCAT, or any SSB entry, understanding the focus of psychology tests will enhance your chances of success.
WHAT ARE PSYCHOLOGY TESTS IN SSB?
Psychology Tests are a part of Stage II Testing and are conducted on Day 2 of the SSB interview. They help assess your thought process, emotional stability, social behavior, decision-making, and Officer Like Qualities (OLQs) based on spontaneous responses.
TYPES OF PSYCHOLOGY TESTS CONDUCTED IN SSB
1. Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)
You’re shown 12 images (including 1 blank) for 30 seconds each.
You must write a story based on the image in 4 minutes.
Tests imagination, values, and personality traits.
2. Word Association Test (WAT)
60 words shown one after another for 15 seconds each.
You must write the first thought that comes to your mind.
Reflects thought patterns, outlook, and inner personality.
3. Situation Reaction Test (SRT)
60 real-life situations are given to solve in 30 minutes.
You must write your reactions quickly and practically.
Evaluates problem-solving ability, maturity, and presence of mind.
4. Self-Description Test (SDT)
Write descriptions about yourself from the perspectives of:
Parents
Friends
Teachers
Yourself
Your future goals
Shows how well you know yourself and how others perceive you.
FOCUS OF PSYCHOLOGY TESTS IN SSB
1. Assessing the Subconscious Mind
Unlike personal interviews, psychology tests assess your true personality by analyzing spontaneous, unfiltered responses.
2. Consistency of Officer Like Qualities (OLQs)
The assessors look for repetitive and consistent signs of qualities such as leadership, initiative, courage, emotional balance, and responsibility across all four tests.
3. Natural and Authentic Personality
Candidates are expected to be genuine, not ideal or perfect. Any attempt to “fake” answers can backfire.
KEY TIPS TO EXCEL IN PSYCHOLOGY TESTS
1. Know Your OLQs
Understand the 15 Officer Like Qualities and how they manifest in daily actions and thoughts.
2. Be Natural and Spontaneous
Don’t memorize or rehearse responses. Let your real personality come out.
3. Improve Thought Quality
Read newspapers, interact with diverse people, and reflect on real-life experiences to build clear, positive, and rational thinking.
4. Practice Timed Mock Tests
Simulate test conditions using previous year SSB psychology test papers.
5. Work on Self-Awareness
Analyze your strengths, weaknesses, achievements, and behavior from others’ perspectives to do well in SDT.
COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID
Writing filmy or unrealistic stories in TAT
Copying ready-made sentences in WAT
Giving impractical responses in SRT
Using flowery or dishonest words in SDT
Exceeding the time limit
SAMPLE QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE
TAT Image Prompt Example:
A soldier helping a flood victim.
Sample Story: “Rahul, an army man, was on relief duty during floods in Assam. He helped evacuate a family trapped on a rooftop, ensuring their safety. His presence of mind and courage won the trust of the villagers.”
WAT Sample Words and Responses:
Responsibility → He accepted his mistakes and improved.
Danger → He remained calm and acted wisely.
SRT Example:
You are running late for an exam and your friend meets with an accident on the way.
Response: I quickly took my friend to the nearest hospital and informed my family. Then I contacted the exam authorities and reached the center.
SDT Snippet:
My teachers think I am sincere, helpful, and always ready to take responsibilities. They appreciate my curiosity in learning new things.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
Q1. Can I prepare for psychology tests like written exams?
No. You must work on your mindset and personality, not mug up responses. These tests are designed to catch artificial answers.
Q2. Is grammar or handwriting important in psych tests?
Only clarity matters. Neat handwriting and correct grammar help, but psychological content is most important.
Q3. How many WAT or SRT responses should I attempt?
Try to complete as many as possible (at least 50–55 WAT and SRT). Quality matters more than quantity, but speed and clarity are also assessed.
Q4. What happens if my answers contradict across tests?
Inconsistencies show a lack of self-awareness or honesty. Maintain logical and behavioral consistency.
Q5. Will I be disqualified for emotional or negative thoughts?
No, but a consistently negative mindset or lack of OLQs may reduce your chances. The SSB seeks a balanced, optimistic, and practical outlook.
CONCLUSION
The Psychology Tests in SSB are a direct window into your mind. They don’t judge how much you know, but who you are as a person. With the right focus on self-awareness, clarity, spontaneity, and consistency, you can ace the psych tests and move one step closer to wearing the uniform.
