MMPI: Black and White Differences in the United States

Abstract

         Findings across versions of the MMPI have found that Black individuals score higher than Whites most commonly on the Schizophrenia (SC), Infrequency (F), and Lie (L) scales. Studies have found evidence for test bias (Arbisi et al., 2002; Castro et al., 2008; McNulty et al., 1997; Timbrook & Graham, 1994), whereas others have not found meaningful differences between the two groups (Munley et al. 2001; Mcnulty et al. 1997; Ben-Porath et al. 1995; Johnson and Brems 1990; Penk et al. 1982; Smith and Graham 1981; Harrison and Kass 1967). This literature review sought to identify if, what, and why Black individuals tend to score differently than White individuals on the MMPI assessments. Findings indicate the complexities of these research designs and lack of constant similarities in scale escalations. Suggesting that further understanding MMPI and race, especially the individual themself, can change future treatments for those who identify as Black or any minority in the United States of America. Focus on conclusions found in the study in the abstract