This is a study of the relationship between ability to present a good picture on the California Psychological Inventory and the actual life adjustment of S. A group of 50 alcoholics and 50 applicants for Ward Aide positions, both highly motivated to appear "normal," were compared. Additionally, a group of well-functioning Aides, a group of Better Adjusted Alcoholics, and a group of Poorer Adjusted Alcoholics were compared under "fake good" instructions. Results indicate a positive relationship between ability to present a good picture, under standard or faking conditions, and the relative adjustment of S. The results are related to Gough's concepts of socialization and it is concluded that these questionnaire responses are meaningful aspects of the personality and not simply sets to be corrected for. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)