Using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) to Detect Psychological Distress and Dysfunction in a State Correctional Setting

Abstract

Approximately 1.3 million men and 93,000 women are currently detained in state and federal correctional facilities. The ability to identify upon admission to a correctional facility those individuals who either have or are at an increased risk for developing significant psychological difficulties is crucial in order to allow early detection of inmates requiring mental health services. This study investigates the frequency with which 34,281 male and 6,878 female inmates from a state corrections facility reported significant levels of distress and dysfunction upon intake to the correctional system as measured by various clinical scales of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2). Results indicate that a substantial proportion of incarcerated adults reported significant levels of distress across a variety of psychological, social, and behavioral domains.