Because psychological test data are quantifiable and objective, they lend added credibility to the expert witness' testimony and provide a graphic means of presenting information about the defendant's functioning to the judge and jury. Use of the MMPI validity scales can provide evidence of the honesty of the test-taker, thus lending support to the defendant's story. In addition, scores on the clinical scales and subscales can be used to support a diagnosis of battered women syndrome. MMPI profiles for battered women can help elucidate the effects of repeated victimization on the defendant's self-image, ego strength, coping ability, and feelings of efficacy. Test results indicating the guilt, self-blame, and fearfulness experienced by these women also can provide an explanation for the victim's having remained in the abusive relationship and for her perceived need for self-defense. 23 references.