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Parsons J, Rodrigues NB, Erdodi LA. The classification accuracy of Warrington's recognition memory test (words) as a performance validity Test in a neurorehabilitation setting. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. ADULT 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38913011 DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2024.2337130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
This study was designed to evaluate the classification accuracy of the Warrington's Recognition Memory Test (RMT) in 167 patients (97 or 58.1% men; MAge = 40.4; MEducation= 13.8) medically referred for neuropsychological evaluation against five psychometrically defined criterion groups. At the optimal cutoff (≤42), the RMT produced an acceptable combination of sensitivity (.36-.60) and specificity (.85-.95), correctly classifying 68.4-83.3% of the sample. Making the cutoff more conservative (≤41) improved specificity (.88-.95) at the expense of sensitivity (.30-.60). Lowering the cutoff to ≤40 achieved uniformly high specificity (.91-.95) but diminished sensitivity (.27-.48). RMT scores were unrelated to lateral dominance, education, or gender. The RMT was sensitive to a three-way classification of performance validity (Pass/Borderline/Fail), further demonstrating its discriminant power. Despite a notable decline in research studies focused on its classification accuracy within the last decade, the RMT remains an effective free-standing PVT that is robust to demographic variables. Relatively low sensitivity is its main liability. Further research is needed on its cross-cultural validity (sensitivity to limited English proficiency).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna Parsons
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Nelson B Rodrigues
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Laszlo A Erdodi
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
- Star UBB Institute, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Tyson BT, Shahein A, Abeare CA, Baker SD, Kent K, Roth RM, Erdodi LA. Replicating a Meta-Analysis: The Search for the Optimal Word Choice Test Cutoff Continues. Assessment 2023; 30:2476-2490. [PMID: 36752050 DOI: 10.1177/10731911221147043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
This study was designed to expand on a recent meta-analysis that identified ≤42 as the optimal cutoff on the Word Choice Test (WCT). We examined the base rate of failure and the classification accuracy of various WCT cutoffs in four independent clinical samples (N = 252) against various psychometrically defined criterion groups. WCT ≤ 47 achieved acceptable combinations of specificity (.86-.89) at .49 to .54 sensitivity. Lowering the cutoff to ≤45 improved specificity (.91-.98) at a reasonable cost to sensitivity (.39-.50). Making the cutoff even more conservative (≤42) disproportionately sacrificed sensitivity (.30-.38) for specificity (.98-1.00), while still classifying 26.7% of patients with genuine and severe deficits as non-credible. Critical item (.23-.45 sensitivity at .89-1.00 specificity) and time-to-completion cutoffs (.48-.71 sensitivity at .87-.96 specificity) were effective alternative/complementary detection methods. Although WCT ≤ 45 produced the best overall classification accuracy, scores in the 43 to 47 range provide comparable objective psychometric evidence of non-credible responding. Results question the need for designating a single cutoff as "optimal," given the heterogeneity of signal detection environments in which individual assessors operate. As meta-analyses often fail to replicate, ongoing research is needed on the classification accuracy of various WCT cutoffs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Robert M Roth
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
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Erdodi LA. From "below chance" to "a single error is one too many": Evaluating various thresholds for invalid performance on two forced choice recognition tests. BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW 2023; 41:445-462. [PMID: 36893020 DOI: 10.1002/bsl.2609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This study was designed to empirically evaluate the classification accuracy of various definitions of invalid performance in two forced-choice recognition performance validity tests (PVTs; FCRCVLT-II and Test of Memory Malingering [TOMM-2]). The proportion of at and below chance level responding defined by the binomial theory and making any errors was computed across two mixed clinical samples from the United States and Canada (N = 470) and two sets of criterion PVTs. There was virtually no overlap between the binomial and empirical distributions. Over 95% of patients who passed all PVTs obtained a perfect score. At chance level responding was limited to patients who failed ≥2 PVTs (91% of them failed 3 PVTs). No one scored below chance level on FCRCVLT-II or TOMM-2. All 40 patients with dementia scored above chance. Although at or below chance level performance provides very strong evidence of non-credible responding, scores above chance level have no negative predictive value. Even at chance level scores on PVTs provide compelling evidence for non-credible presentation. A single error on the FCRCVLT-II or TOMM-2 is highly specific (0.95) to psychometrically defined invalid performance. Defining non-credible responding as below chance level scores is an unnecessarily restrictive threshold that gives most examinees with invalid profiles a Pass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laszlo A Erdodi
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
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Cutler L, Greenacre M, Abeare CA, Sirianni CD, Roth R, Erdodi LA. Multivariate models provide an effective psychometric solution to the variability in classification accuracy of D-KEFS Stroop performance validity cutoffs. Clin Neuropsychol 2023; 37:617-649. [PMID: 35946813 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2022.2073914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
ObjectiveThe study was designed to expand on the results of previous investigations on the D-KEFS Stroop as a performance validity test (PVT), which produced diverging conclusions. Method The classification accuracy of previously proposed validity cutoffs on the D-KEFS Stroop was computed against four different criterion PVTs in two independent samples: patients with uncomplicated mild TBI (n = 68) and disability benefit applicants (n = 49). Results Age-corrected scaled scores (ACSSs) ≤6 on individual subtests often fell short of specificity standards. Making the cutoffs more conservative improved specificity, but at a significant cost to sensitivity. In contrast, multivariate models (≥3 failures at ACSS ≤6 or ≥2 failures at ACSS ≤5 on the four subtests) produced good combinations of sensitivity (.39-.79) and specificity (.85-1.00), correctly classifying 74.6-90.6% of the sample. A novel validity scale, the D-KEFS Stroop Index correctly classified between 78.7% and 93.3% of the sample. Conclusions A multivariate approach to performance validity assessment provides a methodological safeguard against sample- and instrument-specific fluctuations in classification accuracy, strikes a reasonable balance between sensitivity and specificity, and mitigates the invalid before impaired paradox.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cutler
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matthew Greenacre
- Schulich School of Medicine, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher A Abeare
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Robert Roth
- Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Laszlo A Erdodi
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
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Tyson BT, Pyne SR, Crisan I, Calamia M, Holcomb M, Giromini L, Erdodi LA. Logical memory, visual reproduction, and verbal paired associates are effective embedded validity indicators in patients with traumatic brain injury. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. ADULT 2023:1-10. [PMID: 36881969 DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2023.2179400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was design to evaluate the potential of the recognition trials for the Logical Memory (LM), Visual Reproduction (VR), and Verbal Paired Associates (VPA) subtests of the Wechsler Memory Scales-Fourth Edition (WMS-IV) to serve as embedded performance validity tests (PVTs). METHOD The classification accuracy of the three WMS-IV subtests was computed against three different criterion PVTs in a sample of 103 adults with traumatic brain injury (TBI). RESULTS The optimal cutoffs (LM ≤ 20, VR ≤ 3, VPA ≤ 36) produced good combinations of sensitivity (.33-.87) and specificity (.92-.98). An age-corrected scaled score of ≤5 on either of the free recall trials on the VPA was specific (.91-.92) and relatively sensitive (.48-.57) to psychometrically defined invalid performance. A VR I ≤ 5 or VR II ≤ 4 had comparable specificity, but lower sensitivity (.25-.42). There was no difference in failure rate as a function of TBI severity. CONCLUSIONS In addition to LM, VR, and VPA can also function as embedded PVTs. Failing validity cutoffs on these subtests signals an increased risk of non-credible presentation and is robust to genuine neurocognitive impairment. However, they should not be used in isolation to determine the validity of an overall neurocognitive profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brad T Tyson
- Evergreen Neuroscience Institute, Evergreen Health Medical Center, Kirkland, WA, USA
| | | | - Iulia Crisan
- Department of Psychology, West University of Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Matthew Calamia
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | | | | | - Laszlo A Erdodi
- Jefferson Neurobehavioral Group, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
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Ali S, Crisan I, Abeare CA, Erdodi LA. Cross-Cultural Performance Validity Testing: Managing False Positives in Examinees with Limited English Proficiency. Dev Neuropsychol 2022; 47:273-294. [PMID: 35984309 DOI: 10.1080/87565641.2022.2105847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Base rates of failure (BRFail) on performance validity tests (PVTs) were examined in university students with limited English proficiency (LEP). BRFail was calculated for several free-standing and embedded PVTs. All free-standing PVTs and certain embedded indicators were robust to LEP. However, LEP was associated with unacceptably high BRFail (20-50%) on several embedded PVTs with high levels of verbal mediation (even multivariate models of PVT could not contain BRFail). In conclusion, failing free-standing/dedicated PVTs cannot be attributed to LEP. However, the elevated BRFail on several embedded PVTs in university students suggest an unacceptably high overall risk of false positives associated with LEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Ali
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Iulia Crisan
- Department of Psychology, West University of Timişoara, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Christopher A Abeare
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Laszlo A Erdodi
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
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Erdodi LA. Multivariate Models of Performance Validity: The Erdodi Index Captures the Dual Nature of Non-Credible Responding (Continuous and Categorical). Assessment 2022:10731911221101910. [PMID: 35757996 DOI: 10.1177/10731911221101910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to examine the classification accuracy of the Erdodi Index (EI-5), a novel method for aggregating validity indicators that takes into account both the number and extent of performance validity test (PVT) failures. Archival data were collected from a mixed clinical/forensic sample of 452 adults referred for neuropsychological assessment. The classification accuracy of the EI-5 was evaluated against established free-standing PVTs. The EI-5 achieved a good combination of sensitivity (.65) and specificity (.97), correctly classifying 92% of the sample. Its classification accuracy was comparable with that of another free-standing PVT. An indeterminate range between Pass and Fail emerged as a legitimate third outcome of performance validity assessment, indicating that the underlying construct is an inherently continuous variable. Results support the use of the EI model as a practical and psychometrically sound method of aggregating multiple embedded PVTs into a single-number summary of performance validity. Combining free-standing PVTs with the EI-5 resulted in a better separation between credible and non-credible profiles, demonstrating incremental validity. Findings are consistent with recent endorsements of a three-way outcome for PVTs (Pass, Borderline, and Fail).
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Brantuo MA, An K, Biss RK, Ali S, Erdodi LA. Neurocognitive Profiles Associated With Limited English Proficiency in Cognitively Intact Adults. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2022; 37:1579-1600. [PMID: 35694764 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acac019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of the present study was to examine the neurocognitive profiles associated with limited English proficiency (LEP). METHOD A brief neuropsychological battery including measures with high (HVM) and low verbal mediation (LVM) was administered to 80 university students: 40 native speakers of English (NSEs) and 40 with LEP. RESULTS Consistent with previous research, individuals with LEP performed more poorly on HVM measures and equivalent to NSEs on LVM measures-with some notable exceptions. CONCLUSIONS Low scores on HVM tests should not be interpreted as evidence of acquired cognitive impairment in individuals with LEP, because these measures may systematically underestimate cognitive ability in this population. These findings have important clinical and educational implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maame A Brantuo
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor ON, Canada
| | - Kelly An
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor ON, Canada
| | - Renee K Biss
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor ON, Canada
| | - Sami Ali
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor ON, Canada
| | - Laszlo A Erdodi
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor ON, Canada
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Nussbaum S, May N, Cutler L, Abeare CA, Watson M, Erdodi LA. Failing Performance Validity Cutoffs on the Boston Naming Test (BNT) Is Specific, but Insensitive to Non-Credible Responding. Dev Neuropsychol 2022; 47:17-31. [PMID: 35157548 DOI: 10.1080/87565641.2022.2038602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
This study was designed to examine alternative validity cutoffs on the Boston Naming Test (BNT).Archival data were collected from 206 adults assessed in a medicolegal setting following a motor vehicle collision. Classification accuracy was evaluated against three criterion PVTs.The first cutoff to achieve minimum specificity (.87-.88) was T ≤ 35, at .33-.45 sensitivity. T ≤ 33 improved specificity (.92-.93) at .24-.34 sensitivity. BNT validity cutoffs correctly classified 67-85% of the sample. Failing the BNT was unrelated to self-reported emotional distress. Although constrained by its low sensitivity, the BNT remains a useful embedded PVT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayna Nussbaum
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Natalie May
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Laura Cutler
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Christopher A Abeare
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Mark Watson
- Mark S. Watson Psychology Professional Corporation, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Laszlo A Erdodi
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
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