Clinical Research Note on Psychometric Limitations of Two Harris-Lingoes Subscales for the MMPI-2

Abstract

The Harris-Lingoes subscales were carried over to the MMPI-2 and MMPI-A despite limited empirical evaluation of these scales for either the original or the revised instruments. In the revised forms of the MMPI, these subscales are subject to the same interpretive guideline applied to the other standard scales, that is, T-score elevations Z65 are interpreted as representing clinically significant data. A special problem arises for two subscales because these measures cannot produce clinical range elevations. The maximum attainable T score for both genders on the MMPI-2 Denial of Social Anxiety (Hy₁) subscale is 61, and the highest T score attainable for the Social Imperturbability (Pd₃) subscale is 64 for men and 65 for women. Modifications to standard interpretive practices are suggested in light of these findings, particularly noting the inability of these two subscales to produce useful clinical data.

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