Article

We examined the implications of using the Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) versus the
General Abilities Index (GAI) for determination of intellectual disability using
the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children, fourth edition (WISC-IV). METHOD: Children referred for neuropsychological assessment (543 males, 290 females; mean
age 10y 5mo, SD 2y 9mo, range 6-16y) were administered the WISC-IV and the
Adaptive Behavior Assessment System, second edition (ABAS-II). RESULTS: GAI and
FSIQ were highly correlated; however, fewer children were identified as having
intellectual disability using GAI (n=159) than when using FSIQ (n=196). Although
the 44 children classified as having intellectual disability based upon FSIQ (but
not GAI) had significantly higher adaptive functioning scores than those meeting
intellectual disability criteria based upon both FSIQ and GAI, mean adaptive
scores still fell within the impaired range. FSIQ and GAI were comparable in
predicting impairments in adaptive functioning. INTERPRETATION: Using GAI rather
than FSIQ in intellectual disability diagnostic decision-making resulted in fewer
individuals being diagnosed with intellectual disability; however, the mean GAI
of the disqualified individuals was at the upper end of criteria for intellectual
impairment (standard score 75), and these individuals remained adaptively
impaired. As GAI and FSIQ were similarly predictive of overall adaptive
functioning, the use of GAI for intellectual disability diagnostic
decision-making may be of limited value.
CI - (c) 2013 Mac Keith Press.

Langue : ANGLAIS