A validation of the Referential Activity construct through the Rorschach

Aim: Bucci's Multiple Code Theory considers the Referential Process as a general mental function, among the others, connecting multiple perceptual processing, multiple and different encoding of information, multiple format of representation (sub-symbolic, non verbal symbolic, verbal symbolic). In this study we intended to test the association between the measures of Referential Process (especially the Referential Activity index) and the Rorschach Performance Assessment System (R-PAS) variables in order to investigate the role of the Referential Process in reality testing and percept elaboration qualities. We hypothesized that the Referential Activity index correlate positively with the variables involved in Engagement and Cognitive Processing and Self and Other Representation, while we expect a negative correlation with Perception and Thinking Problems' variables. Method: We administered the Rorschach according to the Performance Assessment Procedure (R-PAS) to 30 people, along with the Relationship Anecdotes Paradigm (RAP) interview analyzed with the Italian Discourse Attributes Analysis Program (IDAAP) to obtain the Referential Process measures. Results: Results showed a correlation between RA and 1) active involvement with environment (negative correlation with Mp/(Ma+Mp)); 2) ability to represent others in a complex and integrated way (negative correlation with MAP/MAHP). The last variable also correlates with the Reflective Dictionary Index. No significant correlations were highlighted for our second hypothesis. Discussion: The ability to connect subsymbolic/emotional experience to non- verbal symbolization and to language seems to be related to a complex representation of self and others in the relationship, and to an active interaction with the environment. Future studies may replicate the research design with a bigger sample to investigate rare R-PAS variables involved in the correlations, such as reflection.