Using the CCRT to interpret the TAT: Understanding the phenomenon of 'card pull'

This study examines using the Core Conflictual Relationship Theme Method (CCRT) as a potential scoring system for the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), paying particular attention to responses specifically characteristic of each card ("card pull"). Additionally, two diagnostic groups were compared for differences using the CCRT method. The controversy surrounding the use of projective tests such as the TAT is discussed in light of a paucity of research in recent years and the practice of most clinicians to use subjective judgments rather than objective scoring as their main method of TAT response interpretation.;TAT stories in response to six cards (1, 2, 3BM, 4, 5, and 13MF) collected from 43 patients were scored using the CCRT method. Repeated Measures ANOVAs were conducted for each card and each component of the CCRT (Wish, RO, RS) to determine if any of the clustered standard categories emerged as a dominant theme. Pairwise comparisons between the clustered categories were then examined.;A MANOVA was conducted to examine Positive and Negative ROs and RSs between two diagnostic groups (dysthmic and anxiety spectrum disorders) and interaction effects were examined. A MANOVA was also conducted to examine if there was any difference in Positive and Negative ROs and RSs in responses given by patients in both diagnostic groups to a card expected to "pull" for stories containing depressive themes (Card 3BM).;Dominant CCRT Wishes, ROs and RSs did emerge for each card, providing strong evidence for the existence of the phenomenon of card pull. Further, the themes found were consistent with past research done on card pull. No differences were found between the two diagnostic groups for negative outcomes of stories. Neither did outcomes of stories differ in response to Card 3BM between the two diagnostic groups. The implications and importance of these findings are discussed vis a vis the interpretation of TAT stories in psychodiagnostic assessments. Some of the necessary components of a comprehensive scoring system for the TAT are outlined and recommendations are made for the responsible use of the TAT as a psychodiagnostic instrument in the future.