Individual Differences Research

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Individual Differences Research > Volume 10, Issue 4 (2012) > 182-192

Preliminary Validity Scales for the Ausburg Multidimensional Personality Instrument (AMPI)

William E. Kelly

Abstract

This article presents three studies describing the development of preliminary validity scales to augment the Ausburg Multidimensional Personality Instrument (AMPI) Clinical Scales (Kelly, 2012). The AMPI is a pedagogical tool to expose advanced undergraduate students to the process of administering and interpreting a personality test with domains similar to the MMPI. The validity scales presented in this article included measures to detect socially desirable responding (Virtuousness Scale), responding in a way that might indicate feigned psychopathology or intense distress (Unlikeliness Scale), and responding in a defensive manner so as to deny unpleasant psychological experiences (Guardedness Scale). Preliminary evidence demonstrated adequate internal consistency reliability and the efficacy of the scales in differentiating genuine versus feigned deceptive responses. Cautions for use and the need for future research were discussed.