About one million British children are taking "psychometric" tests to allow their teachers to create psychological profiles for each child.

The tests measure self-worth, work ethic, regard for teachers, and the child's likelihood of truancy. Children answer true or false to statements like "I am lonely at school," "I would rather be somewhere else than school," etc.

Dr. Glen Williams and his colleagues developed the tests as a way to predict behaviors such as academic success or conduct disorders. Proper use of test results may help boost attendance, achievement, attitudes and aspirations.

Critics of psychometric testing say they may replace personal relationships between children and their teachers. They also point out that they label children at early ages, and that not enough safeguards are in place to protect children's privacy.

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Labels: psychiatric_illness, schools, testing