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The utility of the K scale of the MMPI to predict inaccurate self-reports by college students completing substance abuse evaluations
Abstract
This research was undertaken, first, to provide further evidence that self-reports of alcohol consumption are, in general, accurate. Second, the K scale of the M.M.P.I. (Hathaway & McKinley, 1946) was utilized to measure the respondent variable, defensiveness, as a method for predicting inaccurate self-reports. The data for this study were generated from archival information derived from the files of individuals who completed substance abuse evaluations at a university health center. Self-reported information for a critical incident which led to the evaluation was used to calculate a self-reported B.A.C. (sr.B.A.C.) employing a formula used by Polich (1982). This was compared to a measured B.A.C. obtained from a breath or blood test administered at the time of the critical incident (m.B.A.C.). On the basis of self-report accuracy the subjects were divided into three groups: (1) under-reports (sr.B.A.C. $<$ m.B.A.C.); (2) accurate reports (sr.B.A.C. = m.B.A.C.) and (3) over-reports (sr.B.A.C. $>$ m.B.A.C.). First, it was hypothesized that the number of individuals who accurately report their consumption of alcohol for a critical incident would be significantly greater than the number of individuals who under-report and over-report alcohol consumption. Second, it was hypothesized that there would be an inverse relationship between the K scale score of the M.M.P.I. and the accuracy of self-reported alcohol consumption. Finally, it was hypothesized that the K scale score would predict accuracy of self-report of alcohol consumption and further, the K scale score alone would be at least as good as the K scale score and demographic characteristics in predicting accuracy of report. None of these hypotheses were supported. Alternative explanations for these results are discussed.
Subject Area
Psychological tests|Personality
Recommended Citation
Hoisington, Margo Lynn, "The utility of the K scale of the MMPI to predict inaccurate self-reports by college students completing substance abuse evaluations" (1996). ETD collection for University of Nebraska-Lincoln. AAI9712512.
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/dissertations/AAI9712512