The Karolinska Psychodynamic Profile. I. Validity and dimensionality.

The Karolinska Psychodynamic Profile (KAPP) is a new rating instrument based on psychoanalytical theory that is intended to assess relatively stable modes of mental functioning, as they appear in self-perception and in interpersonal relations. The 18 subscales of the KAPP and their scale steps are described in detail. The information needed for assessment is obtained through a structural interview procedure. The KAPP can discriminate between patients with and without a DSM-III diagnosis. It does not appear to be sensitive to the strain of a major life event. Comparison between interview-based ratings and projective test-based ratings shows satisfactory agreement and similarities in factor structure. The KAPP appears to possess both discriminative and construct validity.