Usefulness of Mussen's Tat Scoring System: I. Differences among Guatemalan Indians,Ladinos,and Mengalas on a Modified Tat;II. Attitudes toward the Physically Disabled as Related to Nurturance and Deference

Abstract

Two studies demonstrate use of Mussen's (1953) TAT scoring system. In Study I a modified TAT, designed to fit the culture of Guatemala, was administered to 57 Guatemalans, including 34 Indians, 17 Ladinos, and 6 Mengalas. It was hypothesized that, comparing Indians and Ladinos, Ladinos would have higher need achievement and higher need autonomy, while Indians would have higher need affiliation. Press lack and press physical danger were predicted to be frequent themes, consistent with the difficulties in living experienced by all 3 groups. Also, based on a recent conceptualization, minimal differences were expected on other scoring categories utilized. Data were consistent with hypotheses. In Study II, 20 college students scoring high on need nurturance 2 and 20 other college students scoring high on need deference 2 verbalized their feelings about the physically disabled. Both groups were significantly likely to verbalize positive attitudes, but the need deference 2 Ss were also significantly likely to verbalize “stereotyped favorable” attitudes, which are interpreted as being less than fully positive.