A construct validity study of the Holtzman Inkblot Technique: correlation with the MMPI-2 content scales

In the present study, we examined the construct validity of the Holtzman Inkblot Technique (HIT) through Pearson correlation between its 22 core HIT variables with an objective measure of personality, the 15 content scales of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2). Both tests were administrated to a sample of 595 subjects (300 male and 295 female) with an age range between 18 and 35 years. The results show several significant correlations between 16 HIT variables, with multiple MMPI-2 variables. After Bonferroni correction was apply only 5 HIT variables (Integration, Abstract Content, Anxiety, and Hostility) showed significant correlation with MMPI-2 variables. The correlations range from a minimum of .14 to a maximum of .24. Some of the results confirm previous interpretation of HIT variables and therefore support their validity. On the other hand, some of the correlations are unexpected and don’t support previous findings. The results are discussed, referring to the literature.