Citation

Jemelka RP, Wiegand GA, Walker EA, Trupin EW. Psychol. Assess. 1992; 4(2): 138-144.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1992, American Psychological Association)

DOI

10.1037/1040-3590.4.2.138

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The validity of a computer-based test interpretation (CBTI) system for mental health screening in correctional settings was evaluated. First, 100 adult male felons were administered a brief mental status interview and a series of psychological tests, including the MMPI, the revised Beta IQ Examination, and the Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory. Psychiatric diagnoses and CBTI ratings of victimization, violence, suicide, and substance abuse potentials were compared with clinicians' evaluations. Second, CBTI diagnoses of 109 inmates were compared with Diagnostic Interview Schedule (DIS) diagnoses. Last, CBTI risk ratings were compared with institutional infraction records of 1, 718 inmates. Agreement between CBTI and clinicians' risk ratings was fair. CBTI agreement with clinicians' and DIS diagnoses ranged from 60% to 93%. Ways of improving CBTI algorithms and the value of this approach in correctional screening are discussed.

Language: en