The prediction of impulsive behavior: Comparative validities of obvious vs. subtle MMPI hypomania (MA) items

Assessed the relative predictive validity of obvious (0), neutral (N), and subtle (S) items of the MMPI MA scale (N = 86 males). Subtle‐obvious ratings were compared to criteria in the three types of measurement delineated by Cattell, namely, questionnaire, life‐history, and objective tests. MA‐O was correlated positively with the Experience Seeking factor of the Sensation Seeking Scale (SSS) as well as time taken and errors on the Porteus Maze, while MA‐S was correlated positively with the Thrill and Adventure Seeking factor of the SSS and the biographic questionnaire. MA‐N, on the other hand, was not related to any criteria. Because the correlations among the criteria themselves were generally insignificant, it was suggested that hypomania is not a homogeneous construct.