When does a difference make a difference? MMPI scores and African-Americans.

The group difference MMPI literature relevant to African-Americans was reexamined for major methodological issues including the criteria used for ethnic/racial group membership and socieconomic status. These issues are of sufficient magnitude to question the traditional scientific methods used in MMPI research and the current interpretations of African-American MMPI profiles. This cultural variance can be identified in item content and consistent scale elevations for African-American samples. The magnitude of cultural variance has been found to vary across samples. Recent empirical data indicate that such variance may be appreciable and significant for African-Americans who are in process of realizing a distinct cultural identity as evidenced by racial consciousness and moderator variables.