MMPI, MMPI-2 and PTSD: overview of scores, scales, and profiles

J Trauma Stress. 1999 Jan;12(1):175-83. doi: 10.1023/A:1024710803042.

Abstract

A number of issues should be considered when applying profile interpretations and subscales derived from the original MMPI. These issues and the overall utility of the MMPI-2 for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) evaluations are summarized. The Keane PTSD scale is found to be an effective tool for differential diagnosis when a cut-off score of 28 is used. The Schlenger PTSD scale warrants additional study. Various MMPI-2 validity scales are useful in detecting malingering, but concurrence regarding cut-off scores is lacking. The 2-8/8-2 MMPI PTSD profile does not emerge as consistently on the MMPI-2 as it did on the MMPI, due to the frequent elevation of scale 7 on the MMPI-2.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • MMPI*
  • Mental Disorders / diagnosis
  • Psychometrics / methods*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / diagnosis*