Summary of "Original Bano Varna Pakde Jaoge 馃檯- Secrets From SSB Psychologist Lt. Col. Rohit Mehra"
Summary of "Original Bano Varna Pakde Jaoge 馃檯- Secrets From SSB Psychologist Lt. Col. Rohit Mehra"
This video features an in-depth discussion with Lt. Col. Rohit Mehra, a retired Indian Army officer and trained psychologist, who shares valuable insights and advice for candidates preparing for the Services Selection Board (SSB) psychological tests. The conversation focuses on common mistakes candidates make, how to approach various psychological tests, and the importance of authenticity over rehearsed or coached answers.
Main Ideas and Concepts
- Purpose of Psychological Tests (TAT, WAT, SRT, SD)
- These are projective tests designed to reveal the candidate鈥檚 true personality traits, not just their performance.
- Originated for clinical diagnosis but adapted by the Defense Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR) for officer selection.
- Candidates must write stories or responses based on pictures or situations, reflecting thoughts, feelings, and actions of characters shown.
- Authenticity vs. Coaching
- Over-coaching and rote learning scripted stories harm candidates by making responses artificial and easily detectable.
- Genuine responses are based on practical intelligence and relate directly to the stimulus (picture or situation).
- Candidates trying to fit pre-learned stories often fail to address the problem accurately, leading to rejection.
- Common Mistakes by Candidates
- Using buzzwords like "bravery," "honesty," and "intelligence" repeatedly without backing them up with logical, practical examples.
- Writing socially desirable or idealized responses rather than natural, situation-appropriate answers.
- Showing contradictions across different tests (e.g., decisiveness in one test but indecisiveness in another).
- Faking abilities (e.g., claiming to save a drowning friend despite no swimming skills).
- How Assessors Detect Fakes
- Inconsistencies between test responses and actual background or behavior.
- Failure to relate the story logically to the stimulus shown in the picture.
- Overuse of rehearsed phrases or unnatural storylines.
- During the conference stage, assessors probe further to clarify contradictions or doubts.
- Advice on Writing Responses
- Focus on quality and rationality rather than quantity.
- Follow instructions carefully: describe what led to the situation, the current scenario, and the outcome.
- Include thoughts, feelings, and actions of characters.
- Avoid overusing buzzwords; demonstrate qualities through actions and logical reasoning.
- In Self-Description (SD), be honest about strengths and weaknesses, showing awareness and efforts to improve.
- Role of Coaching
- Coaching itself is not bad; it helps candidates familiarize themselves with test formats.
- Problem arises when coaching is treated as a rigid template rather than guidance.
- Candidates should critically evaluate advice and develop their own understanding.
- Importance of seeking guidance from DIP-qualified assessors with real SSB experience.
- Candidate Mindset and Preparation
- Balanced lifestyle and positive input (reading good books, current affairs) improve thought process.
- Negative news and social media garbage can negatively influence mindset.
- Candidates should overcome fear of showing weaknesses; realization of shortcomings is valued.
- English language proficiency is important but fluency is not mandatory; basic English suffices.
- Candidates from rural or non-English backgrounds can succeed by consistent practice and attitude.
- Time Management and Practice
- No fixed number of responses; focus on quality.
- Develop reading habits and practice common SRTs to improve speed and clarity.
- Step-by-step solutions are expected for problem-solving situations.
- Conference Importance
- Final decision-making stage where assessors discuss candidate profiles.
- Candidates may be probed on weak areas or contradictions.
- Confidence and clarity in answering during the conference can influence selection.
- Anecdotes and Examples
- Candidates often write funny or irrelevant stories, e.g., a man giving a PowerPoint presentation in a rural area.
- Example of a candidate faking swimming ability in SRT.
- Example of a female candidate initially held back due to blank responses but later cleared after conference due to social factors.
Detailed Methodology / Instructions for Candidates
- For TAT (Thematic Apperception Test) and WAT (Word Association Test):
- Write stories directly related to the picture shown.
- Include what led to the situation, the present scenario, and the expected outcome.
- Describe thoughts, feelings, and actions of characters.
- Avoid rehearsed or idealized responses.
- Show practical intelligence and originality.
- For SRT (Situation Reaction Test):
- Respond spontaneously and honestly.
- Avoid faking or giving answers you think assessors want to hear.
- Responses should be realistic and consistent with your background and abilities.
- For SD (Self Description):
- Write about your strengths and weaknesses as perceived by yourself and others.
Category
Educational
