Trying to understand MMPI-2 test result. Offsprings have ADHD. What does the result indicate?
Patient: I recently took the MMPI-2 and I have my results. I scored high on 4, 7, 8, and 9. My therapist gave me the test but did not really explain the results because I was looking to make an appointment with a psychiatrist. But I am having trouble finding a one. So I looked up the test online and looked at what the numbers meant. If I understand the basic outline of each number then I feel like I am pretty much out of luck. The numbers are not related, the condition each correlates to is not a progressive stage of one condition. So how exactly do I go about fixing things, when nothing seems to make sense? Both of my children have ADHD. Now having experience with the symptoms, I am pretty sure I have it as well, and the therapist agrees. But the other issues make me feel like I am fighting a losing battle to be normal . Do you have any suggestions? And any suggestions on finding a psychiatrist? Doctor: Welcome to Health care magic and thank you for asking the question.First I would like to say that scores on the MMPI are indicative of personality traits and not disorder. Scoring high on certain scales indicates that you have increased traits corresponding to that scale but it does not mean that you have suffering from that disorder. To make the diagnosis you need to consult the psychiatrist. Now the scores:  (As you have not mentioned the scale names, I am considering the scale number according to the 'Total Code by Welsh'.)Scale 4- The Psychopathic Deviate scale. - High scores indicate that you have absence of deep emotional response. Such individual have episodes of abnormal behaviour but generally remain normal and lead a normal life.Scale 7 - The Psychasthenia Scale - It indicates that you have phobias and compulsive behaviour. The degree can vary from not disabling to disabling. If you can do your routine work nothing to worry.Scale 8 - The Schizophrenia Scale- High scores do not diagnose schizophrenia so do not worry. Schizophrenia is a complex disorder and need detailed assessment before commenting on it. Anyways high scores only indicate that you may have unusual thoughts coming into your mind. Again I will say high score does not mean that you have schizophrenia so do not worry.Scale 9 - The Hypomania Scale- High scores indicate that you have overproductiviy of thoughts and actions.In my opinion if you are having trouble with some features of any of the scales you need counselling and behavior therapy to modify the troubling behavior. I hope you find this helpfulRegards.