The role of the minnesota multiphasic personality inventory in the assessment of the sexual dysfunctions: A review

Although the MMPI is well-researched in many aspects of clinical assessment, there is surprisingly little literature as to its role in the assessment of the sexual dysfunctions. Most of the literature on the MMPI in the assessment of sexual dysfunctions pertains to determining the etiology (biogenic vs. psychogenic) of male sexual dysfunctions. Results from these studies are equivocal at best, which has led many to conclude that the MMPI is of no utility on the assessment of sexual dysfunctions. However, several studies have found significant associations between MMPI profiles and types of sexual problems. Most of these studies remain to be replicated, but do suggest that further research is needed to determine the role of the MMPI in the assessment of sexual dysfunctions. This review summarizes relevant studies, as well as provides the clinician with guidelines for interpreting MMPI profiles as related to sexual functioning.