Psychological test in SSB – Thematic Apperception – Word association-Situation reaction-Self description
Psychological test in SSB – Thematic Apperception – Word association-Situation reaction-Self description
Contents [hide]
Psychological Tests in SSB (Services Selection Board)
The Psychological Test is a crucial part of the SSB (Services Selection Board) Interview, designed to assess a candidate’s personality, decision-making skills, and psychological suitability for defense services.
There are four key tests under this:
Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)
Word Association Test (WAT)
Situation Reaction Test (SRT)
Self-Description Test (SDT)
1. Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)
What is it?
- In this test, candidates are shown 12 pictures (including 1 blank slide) for 30 seconds each.
- You need to write a short story (70–100 words) based on what you see in 4 minutes.
Purpose:
- This tests your thought process, leadership skills, and problem-solving ability.
Tip to Perform Well:
Keep the story positive & realistic.
Show qualities like courage, determination, and teamwork.
Avoid negative themes like fear, death, or failure.
Example TAT Picture:
A soldier standing on a battlefield.
Good Story Approach:
“Captain Aryan, a brave officer, led his team in a critical mission. With strategic planning, he ensured victory with minimal casualties, demonstrating leadership and valor.”
2. Word Association Test (WAT)
What is it?
- You will be shown 60 words, one at a time, for 15 seconds each.
- You need to form a meaningful sentence using the given word.
Purpose:
- Assesses your personality, thinking speed, and subconscious thoughts.
Tip to Perform Well:
Make sentences positive and action-oriented.
Relate words to defense values (leadership, discipline, teamwork).
Avoid passive, fearful, or negative sentences.
Example WAT Words:
- Courage – A soldier shows courage in every mission.
- Failure – Failures are lessons for future success.
- Leader – A leader guides his team towards success.
3. Situation Reaction Test (SRT)
What is it?
- You are given 60 real-life situations and must respond quickly and logically.
- Each response should be practical, confident, and problem-solving.
Purpose:
- Evaluates decision-making, presence of mind, and personality traits.
Tip to Perform Well:
Give logical and quick solutions.
Show qualities like responsibility, leadership, and teamwork.
Avoid vague or unrealistic responses.
Example SRT Situations:
Q1: You see a child drowning in a river.
Response: Immediately jump in if safe, or use a stick/rope to rescue, and call for help.
Q2: You are late for an important exam due to traffic.
Response: Stay calm, take an alternate route, inform the exam center, and reach as soon as possible.
4. Self-Description Test (SDT)
What is it?
- You must write about yourself in 5 different aspects:
What your parents think about you?
What your teachers think about you?
What your friends think about you?
What do you think about yourself?
What kind of person you want to become?
Purpose:
- Assesses your self-awareness and personality traits.
Tip to Perform Well:
Be honest and positive.
Highlight qualities like discipline, leadership, and hard work.
Show areas of improvement but also how you are working on them.
Example SDT Response:
My parents believe I am hardworking, responsible, and disciplined. My teachers appreciate my dedication and sincerity in studies. My friends find me reliable and trustworthy. I see myself as a confident, self-motivated individual who believes in continuous learning. I aspire to be an officer who leads with integrity and courage.
Final Tips for Success in Psychological Tests
Stay Positive – Every response should reflect an officer-like personality.
Think Fast – You get limited time, so trust your instincts.
Be Logical & Realistic – Avoid superhuman or unrealistic responses.
Practice Regularly – The more you practice, the better your performance.
SSB selects candidates with strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. So, focus on developing a balanced, confident, and practical approach!
Need sample practice questions? Let me know! Best of luck!