Role of Perception in Differentiating Subtypes of Alcoholism

Abstract

Summary.—A perceptual and a personality test were administered to 694 alcoholic patients to establish whether there were perceptual differences and, if so, to see what personality variables accompany perceptual differences. Three separate groups of alcoholics were identified along what might be called an intact-deteriorated continuum of perception. However, the groups differed on only three MMPI personality variables (L, F, and Hs). Differences between groups for age, IQ, and education were significant. When these variables were controlled, groups were still significantly different on the perceptual task and the three MMPI scales. Characteristics of the groups were discussed in relation to Witkin's work. It was clear that perceptual variability among alcoholics is appreciable.