Cluster analysis of MCMI scores of suicidal psychiatric patients: four personality profiles

J Clin Psychol. 1996 Jul;52(4):411-22. doi: 10.1002/(SICI)1097-4679(199607)52:4<411::AID-JCLP5>3.0.CO;2-S.

Abstract

Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI) scores from 299 suicidal psychiatric outpatients were cluster analyzed in hopes of identifying clinical subgroups and deriving specific treatment indications. The analysis revealed four personality profiles: Negativistic/Avoidant/Schizoid, Avoidant/Dependent/ Negativistic, Antisocial, and Histrionic/Narcissistic. This grouping was validated by examining demographics, diagnoses, and scores on several psychometric scales. Results showed few differences in demographics, diagnosis, or intelligence, but significant differences in depression severity, hopelessness, anxiety, problem-solving self-appraisal, and alcohol abuse. Implications for tailoring interventions for subtypes of suicidal patients are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Antisocial Personality Disorder
  • Cluster Analysis
  • Dependency, Psychological
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Negativism
  • Personality Assessment*
  • Psychometrics
  • Schizoid Personality Disorder
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Suicide / psychology*