What is the key focus of standardized psychological tests like the WAIS?

Standardized psychological tests, such as the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), are primarily designed to assess intelligence and cognitive abilities. This tool measures different aspects of cognitive functioning, including verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed, providing a comprehensive profile of an individual's intellectual capabilities. The results can help in understanding cognitive strengths and weaknesses, which can be particularly useful for various purposes, including educational placements, assessments of cognitive impairment, and evaluation in clinical settings.

While therapy recommendations, physical ailment diagnoses, and career counseling are important facets of psychology and mental health services, they are not the primary focus of standardized IQ tests like the WAIS. These other areas involve more subjective assessments and interventions tailored to individual needs, which goes beyond the scope of what standardized tests aim to provide.