This article systematically addresses several significant Rorschach components: interrater & temporal consistency reliability, normative data & diversity, methodological issues, specific applications in the evaluation of thought disorder & suicide, meta-analyses, incremental validity, clinician judgement, patterns of use, & clinical utility. Strengths & weaknesses of the test are addressed. Gives the reader an appreciation for the substantial, but often overlooked, research basis for the Rorschach & an appreciation of the challenges that lie ahead. (197 refs)