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MMPI F-K index among hospitalized Vietnam veterans
L Hyer1, M Woods, W R Harrison
1Psychology Service, VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30910.
Abstract:
The F-K index of the MMPI has been used as a marker of symptom overreporting. One population for which previous research has shown this pattern is Vietnam in-country veterans with PTSD. This study assessed the F-K index on 515 inpatients: 329 Vietnam in-country and 186 Vietnam-era patients. Normative data on psychiatric inpatients were presented. Also, a special MMPI subscale (MMPI-PTSD), a measure to identify PTSD among these veterans, was used. Results showed that all Vietnam veterans, especially in-country veterans, overreport symptoms to a high degree. The overall mean for in-country vets was 7.3. Also, when the special MMPI-PTSD subscale was used, a vast majority of in-country veterans who were in the PTSD range had high F-K index scores. Dissimulation as a symptom of PTSD was discussed.
Insights
Vietnam veterans, particularly those serving in-country, exhibit significant symptom overreporting on the MMPI F-K index. This pattern was pronounced in those diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychological Assessment
- Veterans' Health
Background:
- The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) F-K index is a recognized indicator of symptom overreporting.
- Previous research indicates symptom overreporting in Vietnam veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the F-K index in Vietnam in-country and Vietnam-era veterans.
- To present normative data for psychiatric inpatients.
- To evaluate the relationship between the MMPI-PTSD subscale and symptom overreporting.
Main Methods:
- The F-K index was assessed in 515 inpatients (329 Vietnam in-country, 186 Vietnam-era).
- A special MMPI subscale (MMPI-PTSD) was utilized to identify PTSD.
- Normative data for psychiatric inpatients were established.
Main Results:
- All Vietnam veterans, especially in-country veterans, demonstrated high levels of symptom overreporting (mean F-K index for in-country vets was 7.3).
- A significant majority of in-country veterans identified with PTSD via the MMPI-PTSD subscale also exhibited high F-K index scores.
- The findings suggest potential dissimulation as a symptom within PTSD presentations.
Conclusions:
- Vietnam veterans, particularly in-country, frequently overreport symptoms as measured by the MMPI F-K index.
- High F-K index scores are common among in-country veterans with PTSD, suggesting symptom overreporting is linked to the disorder.
- The study highlights the importance of considering symptom reporting biases in the assessment of PTSD in this population.