A Normative Sample of 456 Algerian Adults for the Rorschach Comprehensive System

Abstract: This study aimed to establish normative reference data from a sample of 456 Algerian nonpatient adults for the Rorschach Comprehensive System (CS), addressing the lack of culture-specific norms for Algeria. Participants were randomly recruited from 34 wilayas to ensure geographic, educational, and socioeconomic representativeness. Examiners underwent rigorous training (70 hr) in CS administration and coding, and interrater reliability was assessed through double coding of 19% of the protocols, yielding excellent agreement (Cohen’s κ = .84–.99). Descriptive statistics were generated and compared with US norms ( Exner, 2007 ), Composite International Reference Values (CIRVs; Meyer et al., 2007 ), and French reference data (Sultan et al., 2004). Findings revealed several distinct patterns in the Algerian sample, including lower developmental quality scores (DQ+), XA%, and WDA%; higher proportions of pure form (F) responses; and fewer popular responses compared to international reference samples. Over half of the participants obtained a positive Coping Deficit Index (CDI), whereas other indicators of psychological disturbance (DEPI, PTI) remained within normal limits. These results suggest that Algerian respondents tend to rely on a more concrete, form-focused perceptual style, with fewer conventional responses, potentially reflecting cultural attitudes toward psychological assessment. This study provides the first comprehensive Algerian CS norms, offering an essential reference for clinical practice and research both within Algeria and among Algerian-origin populations abroad.