Ability to Simulate Normalcy as a Function of Differential Psychopathology

Abstract

Experiments on the simulation of MMPI profile types have generally neglected the possibility that individuals manifesting different forms of psychopathology may differ in ability to simulate normalcy. This thesis was tested by grouping college students (22 women and 13 men) into diagnostic categories on the basis of their own MMPI profiles and then comparing group MMPI profiles generated on a simulation task. Results indicated that simulations produced by the normal, neurotic, and psychopathic groups were essentially normal while those produced by the psychotic and hypomanic groups were clearly pathological. These results are discussed in terms of the requirements of the simulation task and the possibility that perceptual distortions which are concomitants of more severe forms of psychopathology may explain the findings.