Are validity scales useful for detecting deliberately faked personality tests? A study in incarcerated populations

Abstract

Personality self-report questionnaires are frequently used in forensic settings to detect psychopathology, to predict recidivism, and to assess adaptability to life in prison. Although most personality questionnaires include validity or control scales, even with the scales most outcomes can be easily manipulated. The aim of this study is to analyze the utility of the control scales of the Situational Personality Questionnaire (SPQ). A sample of 200 male prisoners was randomized into two groups. Both groups completed the SPQ as a part of the mandatory psychological assessment when they entered prison, and then again eight months later. In time 2, one group received instructions to falsify the results of the questionnaire. Results indicated that the feigned induction was effective. The control scales were not able to detect feigners. Results are discussed with regard to their implications for further research into assessing fake responses in forensic settings.

Keywords:

• fake-bad
• assessment
• prisoners

Acknowledgements

CIBERobn is an initiative of ISCIII. This study has been supported in part by the Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (Plan Nacional de Investigación Científica, Desarrollo e Innovación Tecnológica 2008–2011) in the project (PSI2008-04392/PSIC).

Notes

1. Although both ‘malingering’ and feigning are use in this paper, there are differences between the terms. Malingering is defined as the intentional production of false or grossly exaggerated physical or psychological symptoms, motivated by external incentives such as avoiding military duty, avoiding work, obtaining principal compensation, evading criminal prosecution or obtaining drugs (APA, 2000). Feigning means to deliberately fabricate or to grossly exaggerate a clinical condition. Psychological tests can be used to assess whether an individual may be feigning but tests cannot establish the motivations required to categorize such deception as malingering (Rogers & Correa, 2008).