The last truth to determine but the first to consider: navigating negative response distortion on the PAI in a forensic context

Negative response distortion must be a consideration for any psychologist endeavouring to measure reported psychopathology in populations for whom there exists an external incentive for a diagnosis. The Personality Assessment Inventory (Morey, 1991) is increasingly being used in psychological assessment in the forensic arena. This paper presents an overview of the validation of the negative validity indices of the PAI to interpret data from a recent archival file review of 400 individuals who participated in assessment as part of a compensation claim process or in preparation for criminal sentencing. Whilst malingering must be a standard consideration in any forensic assessment, a systematic process for the determination of the veracity of client reports has not been developed. Practical application of the PAI validity indices to this detection process are discussed and specific recommendations are made.