SNHU PSY 622 Final Project : Case Scenario 1-6 Latest 2024 with complete solution
Final Project : Case Scenario 1-6
Kahliah Simpson
Southern New Hampshire University PSY 622: Assessment for Forensic Psychology
Professor Julia Gadlage March 28, 2024 The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory 2 ( MMPI-2) in conjunction with a clinical interview were used as tools to determine Ms. A’s capacity to parent and the potential for reunification with her child. The results of the MMPI-2 were provided and evaluated for recommendations. The MMPI-2 is a psychometric test often utilized by mental health professionals to aid in the diagnosis of mental health disorders, the development of treatment plans and is often inhibited in the legal setting for capacity determinations ( Derksen, 2006). The
MMPI-2 is considered the “gold standard” of personality testing as it is not only the most frequently used technique but the most admissible one as it adheres to the five Daubert standards
( Ackerman, 2010).
The Daubert Standard Five includes: (1) whether the theory or technique in question has it or can it be tested; (2) Has it been subjected to peer reviewed and is it published ; (3) the known potential rate of error; (4) are there standards that exist to maintain and control its operations; (5) has it been widely accepted within a relevant scientific community ( Robinson, 2023). The MMPI-2 , in regard to Ms. A’s case, meets the expectations of the Daubert Standard.
The MMPI-2 uses validity scales, L, K, and F to determine the validity of the answers provided by the subject. The presence of High L scales indicate an individual that is either moralistic or attempting to portray themselves in a very positive or “perfect” light (Ackerman, 2010).
However, if the L is above 60 and the K above 65 in the MMPI-2, then the scales may be presenting inaccurate results due to the individuals overt attempt to portray themselves in a more
“ favorable light” ( Ackerman, 2010). Ms. A obtained a high score on both the L (67) and K (80)
scales, which would indicate that her responses were false and intended to be deceptive of her true nature. Additionally, she received high scoring on the three of the scales ( the clinical , content and validity ) suggesting that negative interpersonal relations with authority figures and family exists ( Butcher, 2015). Additionally, Ms. A displayed high scoring on the schizophrenia,
Mania, Psychopathic Deviate, and Paranoia scales, which is indicative of symptoms such as: bizarre thoughts, lack of impulse control, narcissistic and self-center behaviors ( Butcher, 2015). In regard to the obtained interview information, Ms. A has an intensive history of drug abuse , both personal and within her childhood , as well as a heavy reliance on drugs , such as heroin, mood stabilizers and anxiolytics.
Based on the collective history of Ms. A , it appears that she meets the Type 3 or Gamma
Risk Typology , these parents often tend to exhibit symptoms of Substance dependence and
often demonstrate low willingness to comply with recommended treatment ( Chandler, 2013).
Additionally, these individuals generally have limited relationships, are at risk for child
abuse ( neglect and criminality) , rely heavily on government assistance such as disability
and are at risk for abuse of drugs ( Chandler, 2013).
Furthermore, the collateral information collected confirmed that there is a significant history of child neglect and abuse, as well as previous convictions for drugs and fraud. Ms. A has
no education beyond the 8th grade and has been reliant on disability since 2009 due to her concurrent mental and physical conditions. Additionally, she has a diagnosis of hepatitis C from her past heroin usage.
Based on the provided information it is recommended Ms. A receives at least a six-month
treatment, as the efficiency is generally lower within the first six months of any treatment. It would be pertinent that she be required to undergo routine drug screenings and complete a successful drug treatment plan. The successful completion of the drug treatment plan will allow her to build coping skills to avoid reoccurrence of substance abuse for long-term recovery
( Miller et al., 2009). Lastly, Ms. A should be required to attend parenting and life skill courses.