CAVEING THE MMPI FOR AN OPTIMISM-PESSIMISM SCALE - SELIGMAN ATTRIBUTIONAL MODEL AND THE ASSESSMENT OF EXPLANATORY STYLE

Research based on Seligman's model indicates that a pessimistic explan atory style predicts increased frequency of depression, poorer physica l health, and lower levels of achievement. The data show that persons who have a pessimistic outlook on life are more frequent users of the medical and mental health care delivery systems. This paper describes the development of a bipolar MMPI Optimism-Pessimism (PSM) scale that is based on the results of a technique-Content Analysis of Verbatim Ex planation (CAVE)-applied to the MMPI. Reliability and validity indices show that the PSM scale is highly accurate and consistent with Seligm an's theory. Identification of the patient's explanatory style may lea d to improved management because intervention measures can be directed more accurately according to the patient's personality style. The new scale also will allow researchers to use existing MMPI data to explor e relationships between explanatory style and various outcome variable s and behavioral correlates.