The Rorschach Comprehensive System (CS) Psychometric Validity of Individual Variables.

Area of Science:

• Psychological Assessment
• Personality Psychology
• Psychometrics

Background:

• The Rorschach Inkblot Method (RIM) has a long history of debate regarding its psychometric properties.
• The Rorschach Comprehensive System (CS) validity has been supported by meta-analyses using external criteria.
• A recent meta-analysis identified 13 CS variables with limited supporting validity evidence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the evidence questioning the validity of 13 specific Rorschach Comprehensive System variables.
• To argue against the removal or modification of these variables based on current evidence.
• To propose considerations for future research on CS variable validity.

Main Methods:

• Review and analysis of a recent meta-analysis on Rorschach Comprehensive System (CS) variable validity.
• Examination of the evidence presented for the limited validity of 13 selected CS variables.
• Discussion of methodological issues in validity studies, including variable interpretation and criterion appropriateness.

Main Results:

• The meta-analysis by Mihura et al. (2013) found varying levels of validity for CS variables, with 13 showing "little to no support."
• This article concurs with the general findings but disputes the compelling nature of the evidence against these 13 variables.
• Issues related to the definition, coding, interpretation, and external criteria used for validity assessment are highlighted.

Conclusions:

• The evidence against the validity of the 13 Rorschach Comprehensive System variables is not sufficiently robust to warrant their removal or modification.
• Further research is needed, paying close attention to variable interpretation and the appropriateness of external validation criteria.
• Implications for clinical and forensic applications of the Rorschach Comprehensive System are considered.