The prediction of impulsive behavior: comparative validities of obvious vs. subtle MMPI hypomania (MA) items

Assessed the relative predictive validity of obvious (0), neutral (N), and subtle (S) items of the MMPI Ma scale (N = 86 males). Subtle-obvious ratings were compared to criteria in the three types of measurement delineated by Cattell, namely, questionnaire, life-history, and objective tests. Ma-O was correlated positively with the Experience Seeking factor of the Sensation Seeking Scale (SSS) as well as time taken and errors on the Porteus Maze, while Ma-S was correlated positively with the Thrill and Adventure Seeking factor of the SSS and the biographic questionnaire. Ma-N, on the other hand, was not related to any criteria. Because the correlations among the criteria themselves were generally insignificant, it was suggested that hypomania is not a homogeneous construct.