Replicability of Rorschach Signs with Known Degrees of Suicidal Intent

Abstract

Summary This study examines the hypotheses that Rorschach signs of suicide are more likely to be replicated if criteria of suicide are carefully specified and if attention is given to the time interval between Rorschach administration and the date of suicide. Each subject was given a suicidal intention score based on rating three aspects of his suicide act-degree of planning, lethality of method, and provision for rescue. Biserial correlation coefficients between suicidal intention ratings and Rorschach signs approached statistical significance more often than with a simple dichotomy (attempt vs. non-attempt). Results of statistical tests with two subgroups based on the time interval between testing and suicide were inconclusive.