MMPI-2
The examinee responded consistently. Caution while interpreting, current symptoms may be exaggerated. However, the profile is likely accurate. The test data suggests that William presents with somatic complaints. William may develop somatic symptoms in times of stress. William may lack insight concerning causes of somatic symptoms. William scored similarly to those that feel pessimistic and hopeless. He may be preoccupied with guilt, death, suicide. He likely experiences subjective depression, mental dullness, and brooding. He likely feels unhappy, lacks energy, and interest in past activities. He may have difficulties with concentration, attention, and memory. William may lack self-confidence and feel inferior. William may be sensitive to criticism. He may respond to criticism with self-doubt (Groth-Marnat, 2016). William may find himself ruminating about the past often. There may be some denial of problems. William may feel that his family does not understand what he is going through; there may be family discord. William may have some concerns about close relationships including his wife. Data suggests that he feels isolated. He has strong opinions about right and wrong and may be confrontational to defend his beliefs. He may be experienced as competitive. William may feel guilt for past deeds. William answered similar to those that tend to be easily agitated. He may perceive his thoughts to be uncontrollable at times. He may also experience fear and anxiety. He may doubt his faculties. It is possible that he avoids interacting or connecting with others. He may dislike large gatherings and be considered socially awkward. William may prefer being alone. He may describe feeling empty. William responded in a way that suggests suicidal ideation (i.e., wishing he were dead). He may worry excessively and respond to stress by withdrawing into fantasy. William may have trouble sleeping. His results indicate that he grapples with generalized fears much of the time. Test data suggests that William is experiencing flashbacks. William may have a history of substance abuse. His responses indicate acknowledgment of substance abuse problems. William may experience guilt and anxiety after heavily drinking; may feel justified in externalizing anger due to feeling wronged (Groth-Marnat, 2016). William scored similarly to those that tend to have temper tantrums and may lose control and be physically abusive. However, William’s responses suggest he controls his anger most of the time. It may be difficult for William to trust others. Furthermore, William’s scores indicate possible negative attitudes about mental health treatment. He may give up easily, feel unable to change, and have trouble sharing. However, clients that are uncomfortable enough (i.e., elevated depression and anxiety) may be motivated to change (Groth-Marnat, 2016). William scored similar to those with posttraumatic stress disorder. William seems to have mostly masculine interests. William may tend to be a risk taker. William’s score indicates that he does not follow traditional social rules. Scores on the test indicate that overall William is anxious, resentful, passive-aggressive, schizotypal, avoidant; has a strong need for affection; possible paranoid ideation; more alienated; depressed, demanding, and blaming; marital and sexual conflict suggested (Nichols, 2011).
Rorschach
The profile for the Rorschach appears to be valid. Test results suggest significant mood disturbance with poor insight and avoidance. Results indicate underlying resentment and possible problems with authority figures, especially in times of stress, that manifest as irritability. Stress management may be inadequate; he seems to be experiencing overwhelming chronic stress. He responded similarly to those that compare themselves to others and have low self-esteem. Results show that he is likely capable of close relationships; however, he chooses to avoid others. He may become easily overwhelmed with too much information and has difficulty concentrating. He may have a simplistic view of the world and misperceive events especially in high stress situations. He may struggle with impulsivity. (Laureate Education, 2013)
WAIS-IV
The assessment results may not be a reliable and valid indication of Williams abilities. William’s symptoms of posttraumatic stress particularly difficulty concentrating could negatively affect results.The GAI may be a more accurate reflection of William’s ability than the FSIQ. (Marsman, 2019)
William obtained a Verbal Comprehension Index of 96-108 (55th percentile rank), Perceptual Reasoning Index of 96-108 (55th percentile rank), Working Memory Index of 74-88 (9th percentile rank), Processing Speed Index of 75-91 (10th percentile rank), and Full Scale IQ 88-96 (30th percentile rank). The chances that the true score lies within the range is 95 out of 100. William’s full-scale IQ is classified as average and is equal to or higher than 30% of people in his age group; General Ability rank was equal to or higher than 53% of people similar in age. William’s pattern of scores indicates that he is average in verbal comprehension and perceptual reasoning. He is low average on working memory and processing speed.
William’s Visual Comprehension Index was significantly higher than his Working Memory Index (22 points higher). His Verbal Comprehension Index was also significantly higher than Processing Speed Index (21 points higher). William’s Perceptual Reasoning Index was significantly higher than the Working Memory Index (22 points higher). Additionally, his Perceptual Reasoning Index was significantly higher than the Processing Speed Index (21 points higher). William has a significant (relative) weakness in the Digit Span subtest. His strength was in the Information subtest.
William’s test results indicate that compared to his performance in other areas he struggles with working memory and processing speed. He showed attention, concentration, and short-term memory difficulties. Test results suggest he struggles with cognitive flexibility, mental alertness, and motivation (NCS Pearson, 2008). William may also struggle with short-term memory (Growth-Marnat, 2016). However, he has access to a wide range of general information (i.e., acquired knowledge).
Behavior
William dressed relaxed and informal for the testing session. He looks like his stated age and seems to be average height and weight. William was reluctant to open up during testing. It was difficult to establish rapport with William. He did not show a range of emotions and seemed guarded. He responded to his perceived poor performance by expressing frustration and fidgeting. William had trouble focusing on the test: he often looked around the room. However, he did respond to questions and comply with testing instructions. He responded to questions in an intelligent manner. His comprehension was normal. He presented with fair judgement and insight. (Laureate Education, 2012)
Background
General. William is a 38-year-old, recently married, African-American male. His preferred language is English. He recently lost his home and is living with his step-brother in California. William and his wife lived in New Jersey. William served in the Iraq war as a captain for six years. He stated that his problems started after going to war. William admits that he no longer feels like himself. He described difficulty sleeping and feeling chronically tired. He stated that he believes he cannot be open with anyone. William stated that he consumes alcohol, 5-12 drinks per day, to cope and avoid traumatic memories of the war. Furthermore, his living situation has put a strain on his marriage.
Family. William’s wife is Luli Kim who is a 27-year-old Korean-American female. They have no children. There is no history of interpersonal abuse. William stated he loves his wife, however, she pushes him to talk and he wishes to protect her from what he witnessed while serving in Iraq. William stated that they have been distanced. They live with William’s step-brother, sister-in-law, niece, and nephew.
Education. William has a Bachelor’s from West Point. He also has a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from the Bronx School of Law and Finance. William reported average to above average grades in school. Additionally, he received specialized training in the Army to serve as a Captain. His last job was in finance.
Hobbies and Strengths. William enjoys listening to jazz music. He is a hobbyist art collector. To stay fit he runs and plays soccer. William stated he feels peaceful when he runs. He used to run marathons, however, he stated that he is no longer in shape for marathons. William is Catholic and used to attend church regularly before serving in Iraq.
Support Systems. Luli appears to be a loving and concerned wife. She stated that she wishes William would talk to her more. There is no known history of disloyalty. William’s step-brother cares and is willing to help as is evident from letting William move in. Henry stated he worries about his step-brother. William’s niece and nephew appear to be a source of pride and warmth.
Medical History. Growing up William met all of his developmental milestones. He stated that he does not use prescription medication. He has no history of mental health issues prior to the war. Currently he is experiencing somatic symptoms of insomnia and fatigue.
Summary
General. William’s primary concerns are sadness, fatigue, insomnia, and substance abuse. Stress likely worsens these symptoms. Test data shows William does not open up to people easily due to belief that others will not understand or be able to help. He seems to isolate himself from others. William is experiencing marital and familial strain after losing his job, becoming homeless, and moving in with his step-brother. Test results suggest that William is having difficulties with concentration, attention, and memory. Data suggests possible guilt, fear, anxiety, suicidal ideation that was likely triggered and related to the war.
Themes. A pattern of low self-esteem, and self-doubt, was noted among test results. Avoidance was another theme in the test results. Test results indicated that William tended to avoid interpersonal relationships and painful emotions. Results suggest that abusing alcohol is a way to avoid traumatic war memories. William appeared to have a pattern of poor insight. He seems to struggle with impulsivity, resentment, and issues with authority figures. His guilt may manifest as irritability and anger. However, there is no indication of outward physical violence.
Strengths and Weaknesses. William has good verbal comprehension. He has a relative strength in acquired knowledge. However, focus seems to be a weakness. William has a support system that appears to have good potential. Unfortunately, he may misperceive others. William is staying fit by keeping up with some physical activities. In therapy, he may withdraw in times of stress. Furthermore, he may blame others and externalize anger. It is also possible that it will take more time for the therapist to earn William’s trust.
Groth-Marnat, G. (2016). Handbook of psychological assessment (6th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.
Laureate Education. (2012). William thompson case study. [Course Notes]
Laureate Education. (2013). William thompson: Rorschach results- key findings. [Course Notes]
Marsman, V. (2019). Psychological evaluation. Unpublished manuscript, Walden University.
NCS Pearson. (2008). WAIS-IV technical and interpretive manual. San Antonio, TX: Author.
Nichols, D. S. (2011). Essentials of MMPI-2 assessment (2nd ed., pp.1-341). New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.