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Detection of back random responding: effectiveness of MMPI-2 and Personality Assessment Inventory validity indices
Michael E Clark1, Ronald J Gironda, Robert W Young
1Psychology Service, James A. Haley Veterans Affairs Hospital, 13000 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA. michaeleclark@highstream.net
Abstract:
Two experiments examined the detection and effects of back random responding (BRR) on the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory--2 (MMPI-2) and the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI). Experiment 1 revealed that MMPI-2 Clinical and Content scales were relatively resistant to the effects of BRR. Fb--F > or = 20T was the most effective index for identifying invalid protocols. Experiment 2 revealed greater susceptibility of the PAI interpretive scales to the effects of BRR and less successful detection of BRR. The most effective PAI validity index was the combined indicator, ICN > or = 73T or INF > or = 75T. Clinical and empirical implications of these findings are discussed, and tentative modifications to the MMPI-2 interpretative guidelines are provided.
Insights
Detecting random responding on psychological tests is crucial. The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) showed resistance, unlike the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI), which was more susceptible.
Area of Science:
- Psychological Assessment
- Personality Measurement
- Psychometrics
Background:
- Back random responding (BRR) can compromise the validity of psychological assessments.
- Understanding the impact of BRR on widely used personality inventories is essential for accurate interpretation.
- The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) and the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) are frequently used but may differ in their susceptibility to invalid responding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of back random responding (BRR) on the MMPI-2 and PAI.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of validity indices in detecting BRR across both instruments.
- To provide empirical data for refining interpretative guidelines for these personality assessments.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments were conducted to simulate and analyze BRR.
- Experiment 1 focused on the MMPI-2, assessing the impact on Clinical and Content scales.
- Experiment 2 focused on the PAI, examining its interpretive scales and validity indices.
Main Results:
- MMPI-2 scales demonstrated relative resistance to BRR.
- The MMPI-2 validity index Fb--F > or = 20T proved most effective in identifying invalid protocols.
- PAI interpretive scales were more susceptible to BRR, with less successful detection rates.
Conclusions:
- The PAI appears more vulnerable to invalid responding compared to the MMPI-2.
- The combined PAI validity indicator (ICN > or = 73T or INF > or = 75T) was the most effective for detecting BRR on the PAI.
- Findings suggest potential modifications to MMPI-2 interpretative guidelines and highlight the need for careful attention to PAI validity indicators.