MMPI Profile Configurations Associated with Incestuous and Non-Incestuous Child Molesting

MMPI Profile Configurations Associated with Incestuous and Non-Incestuous Child Molesting

The comparison of MMPI data for 35 males convicted of incest with 28 males convicted of non-incestuous sexual molesting of children showed marked similarity between mean MMPI profiles and profile configurations. Behavioral similarities in the case histories of the groups are supported in large part by their MMPIs. The incestuous sample's higher elevation on the Social Introversion (Si) scale was the only significant scale difference among mean scale profiles. Both groups had mean scale elevations and profile configurations indicative of self-alienation, despondency, rigidity, inhibition, feelings of insecurity, and fear of not being able to function adequately in heterosexual relationships. The incestuous sample appeared more socially introverted, whereas the child molesters demonstrated a more immature level of psycho-sexual functioning. Neither group appeared predisposed toward the use of violence in seeking to satisfy their sexual needs.