Effects of Distraction on Performance Validity: A Pilot Study with Veterans.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this experimental pilot study was to evaluate whether distraction can affect results of performance validity testing.

METHOD: Thirty-three veterans who have served in the US military since 09/11/2001 (Mage = 38.60, SD = 10.85 years) completed the Test of Memory Malingering (TOMM), Trail Making Test, and Medical Symptom Validity Test (MSVT). Subjects were randomly assigned to complete the MSVT in one of three experimental conditions: standard administration, while performing serial 2 s (Cognitive Distraction), and while submerging a hand in ice water (Physical Distraction).

RESULTS

All participants included in primary analyses passed the TOMM (n = 30). Physical distraction did not affect performance on the MSVT. Cognitive distraction negatively affected MSVT performance.

CONCLUSIONS

Cognitive distraction can substantially affect MSVT performance in a subgroup of individuals. Physical distraction did not significantly affect MSVT performance.