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Article
When Does a Difference Make a Difference? MMPI Scores and African Americans
Journal of Clinical Psychology (1991)
  • Richard H. Dana, Portland State University
  • P. R. Whatley
Abstract

The group difference MMPI literature relevant to African-Americans was reexamined for major methodological issues including the criteria used for ethnic/racial group membership and socioeconomic status. These issues are of sufficient magnitude to question the traditional scientific methods used in MMPI research and the current interpretations of African-American MMPI profiles. This cultural variance can be identified in item content and consistent scale elevations for African-American samples. The magnitude of cultural variance has been found to vary across samples. Recent empirical data indicate that such variance may be appreciable and significant for African-Americans who are in process of realizing a distinct cultural identity as evidenced by racial consciousness and moderator variables.

Keywords
  • Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory,
  • African Americans,
  • Personality Tests
Publication Date
1991
Citation Information
Richard H. Dana and P. R. Whatley. "When Does a Difference Make a Difference? MMPI Scores and African Americans" Journal of Clinical Psychology Vol. 47 Iss. 3 (1991)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/richard_dana/104/