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Published on: June 2, 2014
The relationship between MMPI cluster membership and diagnostic category in headache patients
M E Robinson1, M E Geisser, J N Dieter
1Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida 32610-0165.
Abstract:
Only one study has examined MMPI cluster profiles in the headache population. The present study expanded on this previous investigation by using a large sample size (N = 485) and a greater number of diagnostic categories. The five MMPI clusters replicated previous findings in the chronic pain literature. These MMPI cluster groups were compared to 5 diagnostic categories (migraine, cluster, post-trauma, tension, mixed). No relationship was found between cluster type and headache diagnosis. While the diagnostic groups were found to differ on measures of pain severity, sex and age, cluster groups did not. It is proposed that MMPI scale types reflect a patient's response to pain and are more likely to be the result of coping resources than headache-related personality style. Future research with additional, non-pain populations and prospective studies is suggested.
Insights
This study found no link between Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) cluster profiles and specific headache diagnoses. MMPI scales may reflect pain coping styles rather than personality types related to headaches.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neurology
- Pain Medicine
Background:
- Limited research exists on Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) cluster profiles within headache populations.
- Previous studies in chronic pain suggest MMPI clusters may represent distinct patient groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between MMPI cluster profiles and headache diagnoses in a large sample.
- To determine if MMPI clusters correlate with specific headache types or patient characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a large sample size (N = 485) of individuals with headache diagnoses.
- Administered the MMPI and compared five identified MMPI clusters against five diagnostic categories (migraine, cluster, post-trauma, tension, mixed).
Main Results:
- No significant relationship was found between MMPI cluster type and headache diagnosis.
- Diagnostic groups differed in pain severity, sex, and age, but MMPI cluster groups did not.
- MMPI cluster profiles did not differentiate between headache diagnoses.
Conclusions:
- MMPI scale types in headache patients likely represent coping mechanisms and responses to pain, rather than headache-specific personality traits.
- Future research should explore MMPI profiles in non-pain populations and utilize prospective study designs.
