Convergence of self-report scales and Rorschach indexes of psychological distress: the moderating role of self-disclosure

J Pers Assess. 2008 Jan;90(1):36-43. doi: 10.1080/00223890701693702.

Abstract

In this study, we addressed the weak associations found in research between self-report measures and the Rorschach test (Exner, 1978, 1991), from the perspective of Bornstein's (2002) "process dissociation framework." Specifically, in the study, we focused on the associations between self-report measures of psychological distress and their corresponding Rorschach indexes while inspecting the moderating role of self-disclosure. A total of 59, nonpatient Israeli adults participated in a 2-session study. In the first session, they completed self-report scales measuring self-disclosure and psychological distress (suicidality, depression, and loneliness). In the second session, the Rorschach test was administered and coded. The participants were divided into high and low self-disclosure groups. A convergence between self-report and Rorschach measures of psychological distress was found only among high self-disclosers. In the discussion, we address the theoretical and clinical implications of these findings.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Depression
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Israel
  • Loneliness
  • Male
  • Personality Inventory / statistics & numerical data*
  • Reference Values
  • Rorschach Test / statistics & numerical data*
  • Self Disclosure*
  • Self-Assessment*
  • Stress, Psychological / diagnosis*
  • Suicide, Attempted