Scoring Method of MMPI
The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) is a psychological assessment that measures personality traits and psychopathology.
The scoring of the MMPI involves several steps and components, and it's critical for interpreting the results accurately. Here’s a detailed
overview of the scoring method:
1. Administration of the MMPI
The MMPI is typically administered in a standardized format, either as a paper-and-pencil test or via computer. Respondents answer a series of
true/false questions (for MMPI-2) or a variety of statements (for MMPI-2-RF) reflecting their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
2. Raw Scores
After completion, the responses are scored to generate raw scores. Each item typically corresponds to a specific scale. For MMPI-2, the items are
categorized into various clinical scales, validity scales, and content scales.
3. Validity Scales
Validity scales assess the respondent's reliability and consistency in responding. They include:
Cannot Say Scale (?): Number of items not answered.
Lie Scale (L): Measures tendency to present oneself in an overly favorable manner.
Frequency Scale (F): Detects unusual or exaggerated responses.
Correction Scale (K): Assesses self-control and interpersonal relationships.
True Response Inconsistency (TRIN): Identifies inconsistent true/false responses.
Variable Response Inconsistency (VRIN): Evaluates inconsistencies in responses to similar items.
4. Clinical Scales
The MMPI-2 includes 10 primary clinical scales that assess various psychological conditions:
Hypochondriasis (Hs)
Depression (D)
Hysteria (Hy)
Psychopathic Deviate (Pd)
Masculinity-Femininity (Mf)
Paranoia (Pa)
Psychasthenia (Pt)
Schizophrenia (Sc)
Hypomania (Ma)
Social Introversion (Si)
Each scale has a corresponding set of items, and responses contribute to the raw scores for these scales.
5. T-Scores
Raw scores are converted to T-scores, which have a mean of 50 and a standard deviation of 10. This standardization allows for easier
comparison across scales and populations. T-scores are calculated using normative data, and the formula is:
6. Interpretation of T-Scores
T-scores indicate how far a respondent's score deviates from the average:
• T-score below 40: Suggests low levels of the trait.
•T-score 40-59: Indicates average levels.
•T-score 60-69: Suggests mild elevations, may warrant attention.
• T-score 70 or above: Indicates significant concerns and possible clinical significance.
7. Content and Supplementary Scales
In addition to the main scales, the MMPI-2 has content scales that provide more specific insights into particular areas of functioning, like anxiety
or anger. There are also supplementary scales that can offer additional context to the clinical profiles.
8. Profile Analysis
After scoring, clinicians interpret the T-scores by examining the profile for patterns. Elevations in specific scales can indicate particular
psychological conditions or traits. Profile analysis often involves looking for:
High scores across multiple scales indicating complex issues.
Triads or specific combinations of scale elevations that may suggest certain diagnoses.
9. Clinical Interpretation
Clinicians must integrate the MMPI results with other assessment data, clinical interviews, and the individual's history. The MMPI is not
diagnostic on its own but serves as a valuable tool in the overall assessment process.
10. Reporting
The final report typically includes raw scores, T-scores, profile graphs, and interpretations, along with recommendations for treatment or further
evaluation.
Conclusion
The MMPI scoring process is a comprehensive system that requires careful interpretation by trained professionals. It provides valuable insights
into personality structure and psychopathology, making it a widely used tool in clinical psychology.
