Identification of excessive back disability with the Faschingbauer Abbreviated MMPI

Tested the accuracy of the MMPI and the FAM for predicting appropriate vs. inappropriate disability (illness behavior) in low back pain patients (N = 123). When the Hypochondriasis and Hysteria scales were used, both versions had a 79% hit rate for inappropriate disability and at least an 80% overall correct classification rate. The resulting brief screening measure included 52 items.