Cross-validation of a psychometric system for screening neuropsychological abnormality in older children

The Discriminant Equation (DE) represents a recently developed system for screening neuropsychological abnormality in older children. The DE was subjected to cross-validation on a sample of 82 child and adolescent psychiatric patients referred for a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment. An overall hit rate of 79.3% correct classification was found which supported the validity of the DE in predicting neuropsychological impairment. The findings are discussed in relation to population characteristics and the nature of the criterion to be predicted as they may affect the application of neuropsychological screening procedures.