These tests expect the candidates to interpret problems or situations based on their own motives, attitudes, values, etc. Many personality tests are projective in nature. A picture is presented to the person taking the test who is then asked to interpret or react to it.
Since the pictures are clouded, the person’s interpretation must come from inside – and thus get projected. The person supposedly projects into the picture his or her own emotional attitudes, motives, frustrations, aspirations and ideas about life.
Standard tests are also frequently used to assess the personality of the testee. For example, in the Thematic Appreciation Test, the testee is shown a picture and is asked to make up a story based on the picture. The responses are analysed and a profile of personality is developed.
However, projective tests have been under attack since they are unscientific and often reveal the bias of the test evaluator, particularly if he is not properly trained.