Using the MMPI-2 as a predictor of academic success

This study investigated the predictive validity of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) toward academic success as measured by grade point average (GPA). The sample consisted of 571 students from a private, midwestern college. The Pearson r was calculated to determine which of the validity and clinical scales were suitable for inclusion in a regression analysis. Suitable scales included Back F (Fb), Infrequency (F), Social Introversion (Si), Psychopathic Deviate (Pd), Paranoia (Pa), and Hypomania (Ma). A simultaneous multiple regression yielded an R2 value of .106 for all variables in combination. The MMPI-2 was not shown to be a robust predictor of GPA. Two of the clinical scales (Ma and Pd) did make a significant contribution to the predictive model. Recommendations for future research are identified and discussed.