Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-V) Subtests Flashcards

How many primary cognitive domains (index scales) does the WISC-V measure?

Answer: Five

The WISC-V measures five primary index scales: Verbal Comprehension, Visual Spatial, Fluid Reasoning, Working Memory, and Processing Speed.

Which new index was introduced in the WISC-V that was not a separate scale in the WISC-IV?

Answer: Visual Spatial Index

The WISC-V separated visual-spatial from fluid reasoning, creating the distinct Visual Spatial Index.

A psychologist wants a quick estimate of general ability using fewer subtests. Which WISC-V composite is designed for this?

Answer: General Ability Index (GAI)

The General Ability Index combines verbal comprehension, visual spatial, and fluid reasoning subtests while minimizing working memory and processing speed.

Which ancillary index combines Working Memory and Processing Speed subtests to reflect cognitive efficiency?

Answer: Cognitive Proficiency Index (CPI)

The Cognitive Proficiency Index reflects how efficiently a child processes information using working memory and processing speed subtests.

For a child with language impairments, which WISC-V ancillary index minimizes verbal expression demands?

Answer: Nonverbal Index (NVI)

The Nonverbal Index uses subtests requiring minimal verbal responses, useful for children with language difficulties.

Which Working Memory Index subtest is considered the primary, while Letter-Number Sequencing is secondary?

Answer: Digit Span

Digit Span and Picture Span are the primary Working Memory subtests, while Letter-Number Sequencing is secondary.

Why might a clinician interpret index scores rather than only the Full Scale IQ?

Answer: Significant scatter among indexes can reveal specific cognitive strengths and weaknesses

When index scores vary widely, the FSIQ may not represent overall ability, so individual indexes reveal a more accurate profile.