The Rorschach: projective technique or psychometric test?

Various approaches to the Rorschach Technique are described in terms of the idiographic-nomothetic axis and the perceptual-content axis. It is suggested that it is most productive to view the Rorschach as a projective tool, with perceptual scoring a secondary factor. Current efforts at objectification of the Rorschach are not seen as useful as efforts to enhance its projective qualities. Some possible ways are discussed in which the projective value of the instrument can be maximized.

Progressive esophageal dysfunction in chronic granulomatous disease.

Chronic granulomatous disease of childhood (CGD), a hereditary disorder of neutrophil function, affects the gastrointestinal tract in a variety of ways. Esophageal involvement has only rarely been reported. An 11-year-old boy with CGD and progressive esophageal dysmotility is described. Repeated radiographic, endoscopic, and motility studies revealed a markedly atonic esophagus with varying function of the lower esophageal sphincter. Pharmacologic therapy and esophageal dilatations were unsuccessful in establishing adequate esophageal function. A feeding gastrostomy was required for nutritional support.

Some old and new directions in Rorschach testing.

The perennial dispute between clinicians and researchers as to the validity of the Rorschach is discussed. It is suggested both groups are correct in that the Rorschach provides both poor psychometric data as seen by the researcher and rich idiographic data as seen by the clinician. The freedom of the Rorschach response process is viewed as largely responsible for both these situations. Some possible new directions for Rorschach usage and research are discussed which may improve on the quality of the idiographic information provided by the Rorschach test.

Inkblot content and interpersonal distance.

Four Ht content scales were related to a projective and a live measure of interpersonal distance. Based on previour research, negative correlations between human and barrier content and interpersonal distance were predicted, with positive correlations predicted between anxiety and hostility content and distance behavior. All four content scales were found to relate significantly to projective distance, but only anxiety and hostility correlated significantly with distance behavior. The content scales also were combined in regression equations to predict interpersonal distance. The projective measure of interpersonal distance correlated signifiantly with the live measure of distance. The results were interpreted as support for the construct validity of the inkblot scales.