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The MMPI-2 L Scale as a Measure of Impression Management After Receiving Test Information: a Case Report

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Abstract

Normally, high scores on the MMPI L (Lie) scale are associated with underreporting of symptoms. However, in certain circumstances, such as disability applications and personal injury litigation, individuals may be motivated to convey elevated symptomatology in combination with exaggerated portrayals of virtuosity and truthfulness. Information about tests may help guide this impression management pattern. The current case report illustrates these points and demonstrates that acquired information can motivate an individual, under the right circumstances, to increase their endorsement of uncommon virtues. Clinicians and forensic examiners are encouraged to remain alert to how test information interacts with an individual’s presentation motives.

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Notes

  1. In the absence of a strong bias to respond “false” to item content, L scale T score elevations in the range of 65–79 likely reflect an unsophisticated and moderate pattern of faking good; K scale T scores ≥65 suggest defensive responding; and S scale T scores ≤ 69 are considered valid (Butcher et al., 2001).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Private Practice, 117 East Louisa St., PMB-229, Seattle, WA, 98102, USA

    Gerald M. Rosen

  2. University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA

    Ronald E. Smith

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  1. Gerald M. Rosen
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Correspondence to Gerald M. Rosen.

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Rosen, G.M., Smith, R.E. The MMPI-2 L Scale as a Measure of Impression Management After Receiving Test Information: a Case Report. Psychol. Inj. and Law 11, 336–339 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12207-018-9320-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12207-018-9320-3

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