Personality Assessment Inventory Profiles in Adults Seeking Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment

Author

• Emily KinseyFollow

Abstract

The current study aimed to examine differences in interpersonal functioning and response validity among adults presenting for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) assessment compared to those seeking services for other clinical concerns. The study used archival data from 238 client files collected in an outpatient clinical setting. Interpersonal functioning was assessed using the Dominance (DOM), Warmth (WRM), and Nonsupport (NON) subscales of the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI; Morey, 1991). Response validity was evaluated using the Negative Impression Management (NIM) and Positive Impression Management (PIM) scales. A multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) showed no significant group differences across DOM, WRM, and NON scores, F (2, 236) = 2.76, p = 0.065. Follow-up analyses indicated a significant difference on WRM, such that individuals requesting ASD assessment demonstrated lower interpersonal warmth, F (1, 237) = 9.21, p = 0.003. No significant differences were found between groups on NIM and PIM scores, F(1, 237) = 0.10, p = 0.756. These findings suggest that while overall interpersonal profiles may not differ, reduced interpersonal warmth may characterize individuals seeking ASD assessment. Results also indicate that response style does not significantly differ between groups, supporting the validity of the findings. Overall, these results highlight the complexity of ASD assessment in adults and suggest that interpersonal warmth may be a meaningful consideration in clinical evaluation.

Year manuscript completed

2026

Year degree awarded

2026

Author's Keywords

Personality Assessment Inventory, PAI, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ASD, assessment

Degree Awarded

Master of Science

Department

Psychology

College/School

College of Humanities and Fine Arts

Thesis Advisor

Dr. Laura Liljequist

Committee Chair

Dr. Laura Liljequist

Committee Member

Dr. Jana Hackathorn

Committee Member

Dr. Daniel L. Wann

Committee Member

Megan Smetana

Document Type

Thesis

Recommended Citation

Kinsey, Emily, "Personality Assessment Inventory Profiles in Adults Seeking Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment" (2026). Murray State Theses and Dissertations. 440.
https://digitalcommons.murraystate.edu/etd/440