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MMPI scale clinical correlates for adolescent inpatients
R P Archer1, R A Gordon, R A Giannetti
1Eastern Virginia Medical School.
Journal of Personality Assessment
|January 1, 1988
Summary
This study explored personality traits in adolescent inpatients using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI). Findings linked specific high-point MMPI scale elevations to distinct clinical descriptors in this population.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Adolescent psychiatric inpatients require accurate assessment tools.
- The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) is widely used in clinical settings.
- Understanding MMPI scale elevations can aid in diagnosing and treating adolescents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine descriptive correlates of single-scale, high-point elevations on specific MMPI clinical scales (D, Hy, Pd, Sc, Ma).
- To compare clinical descriptors associated with these MMPI elevations in adolescent inpatients.
- To assess the consistency of findings with existing adult MMPI literature.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 112 adolescent inpatients was analyzed.
- High-point MMPI scale elevations (T-score ≥ 65) were identified.
- Clinical descriptors were gathered from self-reports, parent, staff, and therapist ratings.
- Statistical analyses included chi-square, Fisher's Exact Test, and ANOVA.
Main Results:
- Specific MMPI high-point scales were associated with distinct clinical descriptors in adolescent inpatients.
- The identified correlates showed general consistency with findings in adult populations.
- The study successfully categorized subjects based on MMPI high-point elevations.
Conclusions:
- Single-scale, high-point MMPI elevations provide valuable descriptive correlates in adolescent psychiatric inpatients.
- These findings support the applicability of MMPI interpretations across different age groups.
- Further research can refine the understanding of MMPI profiles in adolescent mental health.