Question:
Psychologist Recommended MMPI

I went today for my Pschological Evaluation and it was short and sweet and he thought that I seemed Psychologically Fit and would recommend to my Bariatric Surgeon that I was a good candidate! Yea, then he said I would like for you to come in this week so that you can take a MMPI just to make sure that things are ok and if anything comes from it. I will call you & also let Dr Way know. Wonder Why? I am flipping out, thought I made it and all the sudden he wants me to take this test. Scared they might interpret me out to be be this maniac and then deny me! Help can anyone make me feel better about this and how the test works? Thanks for all the help you all can offer!    — Deborah B. (posted on August 23, 2003)

August 23, 2003
My doctor told me that most insurance companies require the personality test before they will approve you and that it is just a formality.
   — Alicia K.

August 23, 2003
It was required by my surgeon. Don't fret, while it's 567 or so questions long, it's NOT rocket science. Albeit, some questions ARE really "out there", all kidding aside, I kinda enjoyed it. Don't sweat it.
   — [Deactivated Member]

August 23, 2003
My surgeon required it as well. No big deal.. just long! Don't stress over it!
   — SarahC

August 24, 2003
The MMPI is a personality assessment instrument designed to detect psychoses and severe depressive disorders. This is necessary to rule out any candidates who are not psychologically stable to handle this surgery and the steps that are necessary after the surgery. It is just your doctor taking precautions to make sure that she hasn't put her patients in a situation that would be bad for them. Don't worry about taking the MMPI! Answer honestly, don't try to "outwit" the test - it detects these things! - and you'll be fine. Good luck!
   — [Deactivated Member]

August 24, 2003
I think this is a fairly common tool to use in wls psych evals. My insurance required an MMPI, a Beck DI, and some sort of eating disorders screening questionnaire. These are no big deal, I think I included my thoughts on them in my profile, if you want to read more. Please don't worry, 'cause it's not difficult at all, except that it is LONG, if I recall correctly. Good luck to you!
   — Laurie A.