The MMPI F Scale - Cross-Examining Psych Doctors, Tip #68

The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) is the keystone of almost all psychological test batteries in the medical-legal arena.  There are a number of different versions of the MMPI but the most frequently used version is the MMPI-2.  The MMPI-2, like all the other MMPI’s contains validity scales and clinical scales.  Interpretation of the validity scales are used to determine if the individual has completed the test in an honest and straightforward manner that allows for the interpretation of the clinical scales used to make comments about the individual’s psychological status.  According to the psychological literature, any MMPI-2 score at or above the level of 65 is interpretable.  In this regard, the F Scale is one of the validity scales of the MMPI.  For over 70 years the F Scale has been known to be an effective device in detecting attempted simulators or what some might call “fakers” or “Malingerers.”