Construct validity of the MacAndrew Alcoholism Scale

Examined the construct validity of the MacAndrew Alcoholism Scale (MAC) by determining the personality dimensions assessed by the scale. Ss were 161 male and 228 female psychiatric patients divided by sex into alcoholic, antisocial psychiatric, and general psychiatric groups. To investigate the sensitivity of the MAC to antisociality, ANOVAs of MAC scores were computed for the 3 S groups for each sex. To investigate personality dimensions and self-descriptions associated with elevated MAC scores, Ss' MAC scores were intercorrelated with other scales of the MMPI. An investigation of the discrete personality dimensions assessed by the MAC items was accomplished by factor analyzing the scale. Results indicate that the MAC is composed of 6 major factors (Cognitive Impairment, School Maladjustment, Interpersonal Competence, Risk Taking, Extroversion and Exhibitionism, and Moral Indignation). The MAC was sensitive to impulsivity, high energy levels, interpersonal shallowness, and general psychological maladjustment, but not to a general dimension of antisociality. (20 ref)