Are personality test differences between alcoholics and others due to source of sample: a review of MMPI findings.

While some reviewers find that alcoholics have consistent personality characteristics, others conclude there are no such characteristics. The latter reviews claim that inattention to methodological factors (such as source of sample) have resulted in erroneous conclusions. The MMPI literature was surveyed in terms of the source of sample factor. Consistent personality characteristics were found in studies controlling for source of sample and employing the MacAndrew, Holmes, and Psychopathic Deviate Scales. The employment of a multiple regression strategy would help determine whether both alcoholism scales and the Psychopathic Deviate Scale are necessary for comprehensive description of individuals in an alcoholic population.