Refining adolescent MMPI interpretations: Moderating effects of gender in prediction of descriptions from parents.

Investigated external correlates of MMPI profile scales in a racially mixed urban sample of 247 adolescent psychiatric inpatients and outpatients. The correlates included consensually nominated items from the Personality Inventory for Children (PIC) completed by the patient's mother or surrogate mother. Correlates were calculated separately by sex. Validity and meaning of the adolescent's MMPI profile relative to the PIC correlates were examined. Results support the traditional adult-based interpretations of most single-scale elevations; however, Scales 4 and 0 were more strongly supported, and Scales 3, 5, and 6 were significantly less supported. Substantial discrepancies in MMPI scale correlates across gender were obtained for 7 out of 10 scales studied. These results contribute to the actuarial interpretative base of the profile scales in the new MMPI custom designed for adolescents. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)