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MMPI profiles in PTSD as a function of comorbidity

F S Talbert1, N N Albrecht, J W Albrecht

  • 1Psychology Service, VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30904.

Journal of Clinical Psychology
|July 1, 1994
PubMed

Insights

Comorbid psychiatric disorders significantly impact post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) assessment in Vietnam veterans. Specific MMPI scale elevations varied across depression, psychosis, and other concurrent conditions, highlighting PTSD heterogeneity.

Area of Science:

  • Psychiatry
  • Psychological Assessment
  • Veterans' Mental Health

Background:

  • Combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant issue among Vietnam veterans.
  • The presence of concurrent psychiatric disorders can complicate PTSD diagnosis and assessment.
  • Understanding how comorbidities influence PTSD presentation is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the influence of comorbid psychiatric disorders on the psychological assessment of PTSD in Vietnam veterans.
  • To compare Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) scale elevations across different comorbidity groups.
  • To identify specific MMPI indicators that differentiate PTSD presentations with varying concurrent diagnoses.

Main Methods:

  • A sample of 135 Vietnam veteran inpatients with combat-related PTSD was categorized into three groups: Depression, Psychosis, and Other concurrent disorders.
  • Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) data were analyzed, including validity indicators, clinical scales, Harris-Lingoes subscales, Psychoticism scale, and MMPI-PTSD subscale.
  • Pairwise comparisons were conducted to assess differences in MMPI scale elevations among the comorbidity groups.

Main Results:

  • Significant variations in MMPI scale elevations were observed based on the presence of comorbid diagnoses.
  • The Psychosis group exhibited higher psychopathology, with specific MMPI items and scales differentiating this group.
  • Comorbidity introduces heterogeneity into the assessment of PTSD, affecting psychological test results.

Conclusions:

  • Concurrent psychiatric disorders demonstrably alter the psychological profile of individuals with PTSD.
  • The MMPI can reveal differences in psychopathology related to specific comorbidities in PTSD patients.
  • Recognizing comorbidity is essential for a comprehensive and accurate assessment of PTSD.

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