Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–3 (MMPI-3) assessment of bipolar spectrum disorders

This chapter describes how scores from the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–3 (MMPI-3) can be used to assess mood episodes associated with bipolar disorder, particularly from a spectrum perspective. It begins by briefly describing the development of the MMPI-3, its scale structure, and some psychometric considerations. The chapter focuses on the MMPI-3 Validity and Substantive Scales that are particularly relevant to assessing response styles and psychological symptoms that are common to individuals presenting with bipolar spectrum disorders. It subsequently reviews the convergence between MMPI-3 scale scores with contemporary models of personality and psychopathology (with a focus on aspects relevant to mania and depression), and describes research on its utility in the differential diagnosis of mood and thought disorders. Finally, the chapter conclude by highlighting key practical takeaways and calling for research into the assessment of mania and depression symptoms using the MMPI-3. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)