MMPI Test

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Scale
Also known as the "cannot say" scale, this validity scale assesses the number of items left
unanswered. The MMPI manual recommends that any test with 30 or more unanswered
questions should be declared invalid.12
TRIN Scale
The True Response Inconsistency (TRIN) scale was developed to detect people who use
fixed responding, a method of taking the test without regard to the question, such as
marking ten questions "true," the next ten as "false," and so on.
Fixed responding could be used due to not being able to read or comprehend the test
material well or being defiant about having to take the test. This section consists of 20
paired questions that are the opposite of each other.12
VRIN Scale
The Variable Response Inconsistency (VRIN) scale is another method developed to detect
inconsistent, random responses. Like fixed responding, this can be intentional or it can
be due to not understanding the material or not being able to read it.
The Fb Scale
This scale is designed to show changes in how a person responded in the first half of the
test versus how they responded in the second half by using questions that most normal
respondents didn't support.
High scores on this scale sometimes indicate that the respondent stopped paying
attention and began answering questions randomly. It can also be due to over or
underreporting, fixed responding, becoming tired, or being under severe stress.11
The Fp Scale
This scale helps detect intentional overreporting in people who have a mental health
disorder of some sort or who were using random or fixed responding.
The FBS Scale

The "symptom validity" scale is used for people who are taking the test because they're
claiming that they had a personal injury or disability. This scale can help establish the
credibility of the test taker.
The S Scale
The "superlative self-presentation" scale was developed in 1995 to look for additional
underreporting. It also has sub-scales that assess the test taker's belief in human
goodness, serenity, contentment with life, patience/denial of irritability, and denial of
moral flaws.11
Recap
While different versions of the test vary in construction, the MMPI-2 and
MMPI-A are made of 10 scales that are used to indicate different
psychological conditions. The test also contains validity scales that can be
helpful for detecting issues with the results such as conscious or
unconscious attempts to manipulate the results of the assessment.
How Accurate Is the MMPI Test?

The MMPI is considered reliable; however, it is just one tool of many to diagnose mental
health conditions.
Although the MMPI provides useful information, a health professional
shouldn't rely on just one tool in order to make a full diagnosis.
Diagnoses should be made by taking a number of things into account such as a physical
and psychological exam, a thorough health history, and, if necessary, lab tests to rule
out substance use and/or other illnesses that may produce symptoms of mental health
conditions.13
Things to Consider When Taking the MMPI Test

If you're taking the MMPI test, the following are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
 It's not a pass/fail test: There is no way to get the test questions right or wrong.
The test is a tool used to assess personality and mental illnesses.
 You can take an MMPI test online for free: Some sites offer a free practice test so
you can get comfortable with the types of questions.
 You don't study for this test: Taking a practice test can help you feel more
prepared for when you take the real test; however, since there are no right or
wrong answers, try not to stress. You don't study for the MMPI like you would for
a test in school, for instance.
 The test should be given by a professional: While it's OK to take a practice test,
remember, the real test is administered and scored by a health professional.
 Be honest: Don't try to modify your test answers; honesty helps make the test
more valid.
While you may be able to take the MMPI online, you can also research psychologists
and/or psychiatrists in your area who can refer you to a professional that will administer
the test in person.
Summary
The MMPI is the most frequently used and most extensively researched psychological
assessment tool. It is used extensively to help doctors and therapists screen for and
diagnose mental health conditions. The test involves completing a number of questions
that correspond to different scales that correspond to certain mental health conditions.
However, mental health professionals don't rely on the results alone when making a
diagnosis.

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The FBS Scale

How Accurate Is the MMPI Test?

Things to Consider When Taking the MMPI Test

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