The Interpretation of Multiple Scale Elevations on the MMPI-A-RF: Findings from an Inpatient Psychiatric Sample

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the distribution of RC scales combinations and their external correlates on the MMPI-A-RF (Archer, Handel, Ben-Porath, & Tellegen, 2016). The MMPI-A-RF is a new and independent measure for which there has been limited research on. The test developers have recommended using a serial approach when interpreting scale elevations on MMPI-A-RF protocols, which differs from previously supported configural approaches to interpreting elevated scales on the MMPI-A. The present study intended to investigate this further, as the distribution of multiple elevation combinations on RC scales in clinical samples are not well researched. This study explored the commonly occurring combinations on the RC scales, and if these combination groups provided an alternate way of interpreting the data. The initial sample included 3,203 adolescents between the ages of 13 and 18 years who were referred for psychological testing in an inpatient hospital setting and had completed the MMPI-A. The findings indicated that there were six RCS combination types that were identified as occurring in ≥ 1% of population: RCSD2 (2.6%), RCSD12 (1.3%), RCSD4 (1.5%), RCS34 (1.0%); RCS46 (1.3%), and RCSD27 (1.1%). In carrying out additional correlate analyses, there were fewer participants who had completed both the MMPI-A-RF and the PAI-A, with a sample of 768 adolescents between the ages of 13 and 18. When these groups were analyzed with regard to external correlates, two overarching combination group types emerged from the findings. One of the groups reflected RCS elevations of internalizing presentations, while the other reflected externalizing presentations. The significant differences of external clinical variables between and within these groups are discussed.