Full transparency on methodology, validation, and limitations
DoRitual assessments are educational self-reflection tools based on established clinical screening instruments. They are not diagnostic and should not replace professional evaluation. Our methodology prioritizes transparency, evidence-alignment, and user safety over commercial interests.
Every assessment on DoRitual follows a structured development and review process:
Our self-assessments are adapted from established clinical screening instruments:
| Our Assessment | Clinical Foundation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Emotional Dysregulation | DERS-16 (Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale) | Identify emotion regulation patterns |
| Trauma Bond | ISTSS Guidelines + Attachment Theory | Recognize trauma-based attachment |
| PTSD / C-PTSD Check | PCL-5 (PTSD Checklist) | Screen for trauma symptoms |
| Childhood Emotional Neglect | CEN Scale (Dr. Jonice Webb) | Identify childhood emotional patterns |
| Emotional Abuse | Psychological Abuse Measures | Safety screening for abuse patterns |
| Gaslighting | Psychological Manipulation Research | Reality-check for manipulation |
We believe in radical transparency about what we know and what we don't:
| Aspect | Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Source Tools Validated | ✅ Yes | Original clinical instruments (DERS, PCL-5, etc.) are peer-reviewed validated |
| Our Adaptations Validated | ⚠️ No | Our simplified versions have not undergone formal validation studies |
| Clinical Review | ✅ Yes | Volunteer licensed professionals review for clinical alignment |
| Accuracy Rate | ❓ Unknown | We do not claim specific accuracy percentages without validation data |
| Research Published | ❌ No | We have not published validation research (future goal) |
Our methodology is informed by established clinical and research resources:
We implement multiple safeguards to protect users:
Content review schedule:
The original clinical tools we reference (DERS, PCL-5, CEN scale) are peer-reviewed and scientifically validated. However, our adapted versions on DoRitual have not undergone formal validation studies. They are designed for psychoeducation and self-reflection, not clinical use.
Content is reviewed by volunteer licensed mental health professionals (psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs) who verify alignment with current clinical guidelines. They do not endorse specific tools but help ensure accuracy and safety.
No. Assessment results may help you prepare for a conversation with a healthcare provider, but only a qualified professional can provide diagnosis. Bring your results to a therapist or psychiatrist for proper evaluation.
Formal validation requires significant resources (clinical trials, statistical analysis, peer review) that are beyond our current capacity as a free, donation-supported project. We're transparent about this limitation rather than making unverified claims.
DoRitual assessments are for educational purposes only. They cannot diagnose any condition and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. If you are in crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis helpline immediately.
For questions about our methodology, to report errors, or to volunteer as a content reviewer:
research@doritual.site
We welcome feedback from mental health professionals, researchers, and users to continuously improve our resources.