An MMPI Factor Analytic Study of Alcoholics, Narcotic Addicts and Criminals

Abstract

Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) profiles were obtained on institutionalized groups of alcoholics, narcotic addicts, and criminals, each sample being composed of 200 subjects. Application of the principal axes technique of factor analysis to the scale T-scores isolated 5 factors. Three of these were sufficiently well defined to produce predictable and stable personality configurations. The first factor, labeled "Undifferentiated psychopath" and interpreted as indicating uncomplicated social deviance, was characterized by a single "spike" on the Pd scale. Small, statistically significant but nondiagnostic differences were found[long dash]the criminals produced slightly greater loadings on this factor. Factor 2 was bipolar The composite profile for the positive pole was much the same "double spike" (Pd-Ma) Pattern as was found previously in narcotic addicts; it was labeled "Primary psychopath." The negative pole was labeled "Neurotic psychopath, depressed," since it showed considerable elevation on the neurotic triad, especially on Depression, and on the Pd scale. While both factors showed strength in the 3 criterion groups, small but again nondiagnostic differences were found. The criminals were more numerous on the positive pole, the alcoholics more numerous on the negative pole, and the addicts were intermediate in factor loadings. Factors 3, 4 and 5 produced further evidence for the presence of classic psychopathologies, but with clear indications of social deviance (Pd elevation) in all. Suggestions were made with regard to the adoption of certain modes of adaptation by the social deviant and for further research in the addictions.