The MMPI/MMPI-2 can be administered to persons who are 16 years of age or older with an eighth-grade reading level.
As noted, it is possible to administer the MMPII MMPI-2 to persons between the ages of 16 and 18, but adolescent norms need to be used.
However, the preferred option for individuals between ages 14 and 18 is to have them take the MMPI-A. It is often helpful to augment the standard instructions on the MMPI-2 and MMPI-A booklets.
In particular, examiners should explain to clients the reason for testing and how the results will be used.
It might also be pointed out that the test was designed to determine whether someone has presented himself or herself in an either unrealistically positive or exaggeratedly disturbed manner.
Thus, the best strategy is to be as honest and as clear as possible.
Finally, it might be clarified that some, or even many, of the questions might seem a bit unusual.
They have been developed to assess individuals with a wide range of personality styles and problem presentations. If they don't apply to the person taking the test, this should be indicated with either a true or false response.
Including this additional information is likely to result in less anxiety, more accurate responses, and greater rapport.
Completion times for all persons taking the test should be noted.