Idiographic Use of the MMPI-2 in the Assessment of Dangerousness among Incarcerated Felons

Abstract

Assessing dangerousness is an essential task for mental health workers in correctional facilities. The original Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) and its variant the MMPI-2, appear to be among the most popular psychological tests in such settings. Two approaches to test data can be used when assessing dangerousness: an actuarial or statistical approach, and an idiographic or clinical approach. This article explores the potential for an idiographic use of the MMPI for risk assessment. Professional literature has emphasized the inadequacies of clinical approaches, whereas more actuarial or statistical approaches have been seen as preferable. This article illustrates through case examples how combining idiographic data with statistically based interpretations of MMPI scores can enhance clinical judgment. It is argued that the individual context enriches and changes the meaning of test scores. Integrating actuarial and idiographic approaches can assist in a more accurate and complete understanding of a felon’s dangerousness.

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