Personality Characteristics of Volunteers in a Companion for Children Program

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of the MMPI and other personal factors in predicting both the length of time the volunteer would be in the program and the quality of performance of the volunteer in a Companions for Children program. The MMPI scores of 67 volunteers, over a 2-yr. period, were evaluated. There were some significant correlations between longevity in program, specifically occupation, education, and scores on the Hysteria scale of the MMPI were negatively correlated. The staff-rated quality of the volunteers, education, and occupation were significantly correlated, as well as scores on the Psychasthenia scale of the MMPI. A forward stepwise regression, performed for longevity and rated quality, showed education, scores on the F scale, Hysteria scale, and Psychasthenia scale were the four best indicators of longevity. The best four indicators for rated quality were the F scale, Hypochondriasis scale, Schizophrenia scale, and the Social introversion-extroversion scale. Although the MMPI was a good screening device, it was not an adequate predictor of eventual longevity or quality in the program.