A new objectively scored version of the Defence Mechanism Test

Kragh's Defence Mechanism Test has proved its worth in a number of applied settings but has hitherto required skilled time-consuming interpretation. Two studies are reported which validate an "objectively scored" version of the test developed using G-analysis. In the first, it was found that this version of the test could successfully predict the performance of trainee pilots. The second study examined the construct validity of this version of the test. It was found that the predictive factor from Study I re-emerged within a sample of students, where it correlated positively with scores on a test of perceptual defence and the Shrewdness (N) scale of the 16PF, and negatively with two of the identification scales of the Defence Mechanism Test. This factor was tentatively identified as one of general defensiveness. It is concluded that this form of the test deserves consideration when selecting individuals for stressful occupations.     

On the generalization of the G index of agreement, Go, for use with ordinal scores

Abstract.— Presents a G index generalization for items where each has a predetermined number of response alternatives on an ordinal level. Shows that G_o is equal to the G index based on another set of dichotomous data. The problem that items with many response levels will be given more weight than those with few response levels is pointed out. An alternative index, G _0e, which does not have such characteristics, is presented and also proves to be equal to the G index based on a set of equivalent dichotomies.     

Mexican American emerging adults' relationships with siblings and dimensions of familism values

We used a person‐oriented approach to describe the profiles of Mexican American emerging adults' relationships with siblings using affective/behavioral qualities (e.g., positivity) and relationship maintenance strategies (e.g., communication frequency) and to examine how profiles of sibling relationships were related to dimensions of Mexican American emerging adults' familism values. Using data from 186 Mexican American emerging adults (M_age = 21.56), we conducted latent profile analyses and identified three profiles of emerging adults' relationships with siblings: moderate (n = 106), positive/involved (n = 64), and negative/distant (n = 16). Our findings suggest that the majority of emerging adults in our study reported close relationships with siblings and dimensions of familism values were differentially associated with profiles of sibling relationship qualities.     

Perfectionism and Creative Strivings

Samples of gifted children in Louisiana (N = 44) and Connecticut (N = 34) were administered the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (MPS) and the Khatena‐Torrance Creative Perception Inventory (KTCPI). The KTCPI consisted of two biographical measures, the Something About Myself (SAM) and What Kind of Person Are You (WKOPAY) subtests. The results for the WKOPAY were generally consistent with predictions. Higher scores on the scales of the MPS associated with neurotic perfectionism, the Overall MPS, Doubts About Actions (D), Organization (O), and Parental Criticism (PC), were associated with lower scores on the WKOPAY. Inconsistent with predictions, the Concern over Mistakes (CM) and Personal Standards (PS) scales of the MPS were not significantly correlated with the WKOPAY. Results for the SAM were inconsistent with predictions, with the exception of the significant positive correlation between the PS scale and the SAM.     

A percept-genetic study of some defence mechanisms in the PN-test

Abstract.— Two hypotheses, namely that percept-genetic analysis can reveal mechanisms of defence (Kragh & Smith, 1970) and that defence mechanisms can be seen in the responses to the Patte Noire Test (Corman, 1966) were put to experimental verification. Card 14, the oral card of the PN-test, together with other stimuli were presented to 9 subjects for percept-genetic analysis of the responses. Evidence is presented demonstrating clear defence mechanisms, supporting the validity of percept-genetic theory and this part of the PN-test.