WAIS Cognitive Domains 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which WAIS-IV cognitive domain is primarily assessed by the Digit Span subtest?
- Perceptual Reasoning
- Working Memory (Correct answer)
- Processing Speed
- Verbal Comprehension
Correct answer: Working Memory
Digit Span measures working memory by requiring the examinee to recall sequences of numbers forward, backward, and in sequence.
Question 2: The WAIS-IV Processing Speed Index (PSI) is most sensitive to which type of impairment?
- Language processing deficits
- Long-term memory loss
- Neurological or attentional difficulties (Correct answer)
- Spatial reasoning deficits
Correct answer: Neurological or attentional difficulties
PSI is highly sensitive to neurological damage, ADHD, and attention difficulties because it requires rapid, accurate responding under time pressure.
Question 3: A person who scores high on Verbal Comprehension but low on Perceptual Reasoning likely demonstrates stronger ability in which area?
- Non-verbal problem solving
- Crystallized verbal knowledge (Correct answer)
- Visual-motor speed
- Short-term auditory memory
Correct answer: Crystallized verbal knowledge
Verbal Comprehension measures crystallized knowledge and language-based reasoning, which reflects accumulated learning.
Question 4: Which subtest contributes to the Perceptual Reasoning Index by requiring spatial construction with red and white blocks?
- Matrix Reasoning
- Block Design (Correct answer)
- Visual Puzzles
- Figure Weights
Correct answer: Block Design
Block Design requires the examinee to replicate two-dimensional patterns using colored blocks, measuring spatial and constructional ability.
Question 5: On the WAIS-IV, which composite index replaced the older Freedom from Distractibility index?
- General Ability Index
- Processing Speed Index
- Working Memory Index (Correct answer)
- Perceptual Reasoning Index
Correct answer: Working Memory Index
The Working Memory Index (WMI) in WAIS-IV replaced the older Freedom from Distractibility factor found in earlier WAIS versions.
Question 6: Which cognitive domain is most directly tapped when an examinee is asked to explain the similarity between two abstract concepts?
- Processing Speed
- Working Memory
- Verbal Comprehension (Correct answer)
- Perceptual Reasoning
Correct answer: Verbal Comprehension
The Similarities subtest, part of Verbal Comprehension, requires verbal abstract reasoning by identifying shared categories between two concepts.
Question 7: In interpreting WAIS-IV profiles, a significant discrepancy between the Verbal Comprehension Index and Working Memory Index may suggest difficulties with:
- Visual acuity
- Long-term semantic storage
- Auditory attention and short-term retention (Correct answer)
- Non-verbal fluid reasoning
Correct answer: Auditory attention and short-term retention
Working Memory relies heavily on auditory attention and short-term storage, so a VCI–WMI gap often points to auditory processing or attention weaknesses.
WAIS Cognitive Domains 2
Which WAIS-IV cognitive domain is primarily assessed by the Digit Span subtest?