PCN 644 Topic 2 DQ 1

PCN 644 Topic 2 DQ 1

Discuss the importance of using the MCMI-IV when assessing the mental status of a client. Can the MCMI-IV be useful in assessing emotional status as well? Why or why not? Provide specific examples to support your position.

The MCMI-IV has an updated set of the Grossman Facet scales which help a therapist identify the most primary aspects of a client’s personality. There are many benefits of using the MCMI-IV in the assessment of mental status. One of them is the fact that the MCMI-IV has a theoretical anchoring. This theoretical anchoring makes the MCMI-IV more useful since it merges comprehensive clinical theory and empirical methodology. Another benefit of using the MCMI-IV is its association with the DSM-5. This link helps to identify and diagnose symptoms distinctively. Furthermore, the MCMI-IV has computer scoring and interpretation programs. These programs aid in the determining of patients who need more thorough evaluation and professional attention. Other benefits of the MCMI-IV include its ability to be used clinically; it has been tested during its development, has base rate scores, and it is supported by research (Millon et al., 2015). The MCMI-IV can also be used to assess emotional status but only after the analysis of the symptoms. For example, if a sign such as ‘paranoid’ is measured, then the patient is experiencing emotions such as distrust and anxiousness.

Reference.

Millon, Theodore, et al. The Millon® Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-IV (MCMI®-IV). 2015, http://www.millonpersonality.com/inventories/MCMI-IV/.