Assessing police applicants : a further look at MMPI and Rorschach data

Currently, there are many problems associated with the process of police officer selection. Focusing specifically on psychological testing instruments, the MMPI is the most widely used instrument in police officer selection. The general MMPI profile for the police population, however, is relatively flat. Researchers have tried to pinpoint scales which will differentiate officers, but consistent results have been elusive. The present research was undertaken to determine if the Rorschach could be effectively utilized in conjunction with the information provided by the MMPI in the police selection process. Protocols (N = 53) from police applicants were obtained and found to be within normal limits on the MMPI validity scales and contained valid Rorschach protocols. The Rorschach protocols were then scored and analyzed. Results indicate that this sample differed from the normative data found in Exner's Comprehensive System (1993) on variables of human movement (M), active movement, Populars, extended Form quality (X+%), unusual Form quality (Xu%), texture (T), Lambda (L), and on the Erlebnistypus (EB) measure and the Depression Index. Based on these findings, it appears that the Rorschach could be a viable psychological test to be used in conjunction with the MMPI to screen police applicants. Further research into the use of these two tests, in a sample where follow-up information is available, is warranted.