In psychological assessments, which aspect should you focus on according to the guidelines provided?

In psychological assessments, focusing on feelings is crucial because they are often key indicators of a person's mental state and underlying issues. Feelings provide insight into how individuals perceive and react to their experiences, forming a significant part of their psychological profile. Understanding a client's emotional responses can help clinicians identify patterns, stressors, and possible diagnoses.

While words are important for communication, as they convey thoughts and narratives, they might not fully capture the emotional experience behind those words. Similarly, actions reflect behavior but can sometimes be misleading or disconnected from an individual’s inner emotional state. Perceptions are vital in understanding how someone interprets their reality, yet perceptions alone do not encompass the depth of emotional experiences that can be pivotal in assessment and treatment planning. Therefore, prioritizing feelings helps create a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's psychological well-being.