Assess the validity of the profile by noting the pattern of the validity scales. There are a number of indicators suggesting invalid profiles, which are described in the next section.
However, the basic patterns include a defensive style in which pathology is minimized (elevated L and/or K on the MMPI-2 and MMPI-A), an exaggeration of pathology (elevated F and/or Fb on the MMPI-2 or F.. F1, or F2 on the MMPI-A), or an inconsistent response pattern (elevated VRIN or TRIN).
In addition, clinicians should consider the context of the assessment to determine whether a defensive, fake bad, or inconsistent response style supports what is known about the client.
In particular, the examiner should determine the likelihood that the examinee would potentially gain by over- or under- reporting psychopathology.