Factor analysis of the PIC profiles of clinic-referred children

The PIC profiles of 175 children over a wide age range were factor analyzed in order to determine the underlying personality dimensions measured by the instrument. The subjects were referred to an interdisciplinary university clinic for a variety of learning, cognitive, and emotional problems. A principal components analysis with oblique rotation yielded three major factors: Internalized Personality Disturbance, Cognitive Development, and Externalized Behavior Disorder. A small fourth factor that involved mainly the Somatic Concern scale was revealed also. Implications of the factors for the interpretation and clinical use of the PIC profiles are discussed.