Detecting complex patterns in interpersonal profiles

The assessment of interpersonal problems has advanced in recent years with the development of new methods for analysing individual profiles. These new methods assume that each profile can be modelled by a mathematical function that reflects the person's single prevailing interpersonal theme. However, some profiles may contain more complex patterns, with two or more distinct themes. Such complexities in a person's interpersonal profile might be clinically important, perhaps reflecting an interpersonal style that is conflictual. In an effort to detect complex patterns, Fourier analysis was applied to profiles of 200 psychotherapy out-patients and 200 undergraduates, using the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems. Although many profiles did not clearly manifest a single prevailing interpersonal theme, having two distinct profile peaks, their apparent complexity generally resulted from measurement error. Systematically complex or conflictual patterns were rarely detectable. Profiles of interpersonal problems may contain complex patterns, but simple patterns reflecting the prevailing interpersonal theme are apt to be more clinically informative.