Effects of opiate withdrawal on MMPI profile scores

A sample of 200 opiate addicts were given the MMPI either during or after detoxification. Results showed decreases in K and in scores on the MacAndrews Alcoholism Scale; and increases in Hypocondriasis and Hypomania, and on the Wiggins Content Scales of Authority Conflicts, Psychoticism, Poor Health, and Hypomania during detoxification. When adjusted for age effects, Ss still showed significant elevations on Hypocondriasis, Hypomania, and Poor Health. Results are discussed in terms of documenting the specific effects of detox on MMPI profiles and may be construed as a construct validation report on the MMPI itself.