Assignment : Comparing and Contrasting the MMPI and the Rorschach Inkblot Technique

Controversy surrounds the validity of certain personality tests, including the Rorschach Inkblot Test. Pundits argue that the Rorschach test results in over-identifying mental problems and is unreliable and invalid. Scholars in favor of the Rorschach test argue that it is one piece of evidence in the whole battery, and criticisms are unfounded or controllable.

Compare and contrast the use of the Rorschach, a projective measure, with the MMPI, an objective measure. Construct a scenario, and present both sides of the argument, where the Rorschach test could be used to help and to hurt the individual being tested. How might a clinical interview influence the interpretation of test results for each? Would you need to make any special accommodations if you were testing an 8 year old? 16 year old? 85 year old? If so, describe and explain. If not, justify your answer.

Search for at least 1 reference that discusses the validity concerns of personality tests. You can use relevant Web sites or journal articles in your argument to comment on the sources of validity, but make sure that they are from reputable Web sites and print sources such as the AU online library, or information from.org, .net, or .edu sites as opposed to .com. Please avoid Wikipedia.

Your paper should be double-spaced and in 12 point, Times New Roman or Arial font with normal one-inch margins, written in APA style, and free of typographical and grammatical errors. It should include a title page with a running head and a reference page. The body of the paper should be between 3-5 pages in length.