What psychological aspect does the MMPI-2 primarily assess?

The MMPI-2, or Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2, is a widely used psychological assessment that primarily evaluates personality structure and psychopathology. It is designed to identify various psychological conditions and the dimensions of personality that may be contributing to an individual's mental health issues. The instrument comprises numerous true-false questions that assess various psychological traits and disorders, making it a valuable tool for understanding a person’s personality structure and the presence of any psychological problems.

In particular, the MMPI-2 can help identify conditions such as depression, anxiety, paranoia, and other personality disorders, which aligns with the focus on personality pathology. The results can inform treatment approaches by providing insights into the psychological factors that may be influencing a person's behavior and emotional health. This makes it especially relevant in the context of substance use treatment, where understanding a client's underlying psychological issues can be crucial for effective intervention.