Relations Between MCMI-II Personality Variables and Measures of Academic Performance

Abstract

Relations between personality inventories, such as the MCMI-II, and academic performance have not been widely investigated. This report offers predictive validation data concerning the use of the MCMI-II personality disorder scales in predicting high school and college academic difficulties. A total of 321 valid MCMI-II profiles were generated by college students enrolled in selected undergraduate psychology courses. High school and cumulative college grade point averages, standardized course grades, and classroom attendance served as the four major dependent measures. Base rate scores in excess of 74 for the antisocial and passive-aggressive scales provided the best indicators of college academic performance deficits. Antisocial and histrionic base rate elevations were associated with diminished class attendance, whereas compulsive personality traits provided a favorable indicator of both attendance and academic performance in high school and college. The severity of risk posed by individual scale extremes was detailed closely, and these results were discussed within the context of their theoretical and practical implications. The primary objective of this study was achieved with the generation of simple guidelines for the identification of high-risk college students from MCMI-II protocols.