ABSTRACT
Several methods and a number of special scales are available to assess complex validity issues on the MMPI-2, many of which are discussed later in this chapter, as well as in chapter 2. However, nine basic validity measures provide the clinician with the essential frame of reference for interpreting the clinical and supplementary scales. These nine basic validity measures (?,VRIN, TRIN, F, FB, F(p), L, KY and S) give some indications of (a) whether the client understood and answered all the items; (b) the extent to which the client is endorsing items claiming the experience of psychological pain and unusual, bizarre experiences, behaviors, or ideas; (c) the extent to which the client might be trying to consciously or unconsciously give a favorable or unfavorable self-portrayal; and (d) the extent to which the client was consistent or inconsistent in reporting. In other words, the basic validity scales are useful in determining the consistency and accuracy of reporting. In addition to measuring validity, some of the validity scales also have personality correlates. The interpretations that follow, then, focus both on the validity aspects of the validity scales and, where applicable, the personality aspects.
