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MMPI profiles of child abusers
1Kapiolani Counseling Center, Honolulu, Hawaii.
Journal of Clinical Psychology
|July 1, 1993
Summary
This study examined child abuse perpetrators using MMPI profiles. Active perpetrators showed more psychological disturbance than passive ones, indicating characterological differences.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Criminology
- Forensic Psychology
Background:
- Child abuse and neglect are significant societal problems with complex psychological underpinnings.
- Understanding the psychological profiles of perpetrators is crucial for intervention and prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the psychological characteristics of child abuse perpetrators using the MMPI.
- To explore differences in MMPI profiles based on perpetrator's sex, type of maltreatment, and offending status (active vs. passive).
Main Methods:
- The study analyzed MMPI (Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory) profiles of 183 confirmed child abusers and neglecters.
- Subjects were categorized by sex, type of maltreatment (sexual, physical, neglect), and offending status (active or passive perpetrator).
Main Results:
- No significant MMPI differences were found between males and females, or across different types of maltreatment.
- Active perpetrators exhibited generally higher levels of psychological disturbance compared to passive perpetrators.
- MMPI profile elevations in active perpetrators suggested a characterological configuration.
Conclusions:
- MMPI profiles may help differentiate between active and passive child perpetrators.
- Psychological disturbance, particularly characterological issues, appears more pronounced in individuals actively engaging in child abuse or neglect.