WAIS-5 Structure: Fluid Reasoning (FRI) and Visual Spatial (VSI) Indexes Flashcards

Which two subtests make up the primary Visual Spatial Index (VSI) on the WAIS-5?

Answer: Block Design and Visual Puzzles

The VSI is based on Block Design and Visual Puzzles, both of which require analyzing and mentally manipulating spatial relationships.

Which two subtests make up the primary Fluid Reasoning Index (FRI) on the WAIS-5?

Answer: Matrix Reasoning and Figure Weights

The primary FRI is derived from Matrix Reasoning and Figure Weights, which tap inductive and quantitative reasoning.

An examinee scores well on Visual Puzzles but poorly on Block Design. Which explanation is most consistent with this pattern?

Answer: Difficulty with motor execution or speed while building designs

Block Design requires motor construction under time limits, whereas Visual Puzzles is motor-free, so the gap may reflect motor or speed demands.

Figure Weights is considered a measure of which type of reasoning in particular?

Answer: Quantitative and analogical reasoning

Figure Weights requires inferring numerical equivalence relationships among shapes on scales, emphasizing quantitative reasoning.

What is the mean and standard deviation of FRI and VSI composite scores on the WAIS-5?

Answer: Mean 100, SD 15

Like all Wechsler index scores, the FRI and VSI use a standard-score metric with a mean of 100 and SD of 15.

Which FRI/VSI subtest is administered with no strict time limit per item, though examiners may use a guideline to move on?

Answer: Matrix Reasoning

Matrix Reasoning is essentially untimed, unlike Block Design, Visual Puzzles, and Figure Weights, which have item time limits.

An examinee with a significant upper-extremity motor impairment needs a visual-spatial estimate. Which subtest is most appropriate?

Answer: Visual Puzzles

Visual Puzzles requires only pointing or naming responses, making it suitable when motor construction is impaired.