Revisiting the factor structure of the WAIS-R: insights through nested factor modeling

Past attempts to model via confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R) intersubtest covariation have used an oblique factor or a higher order modeling approach. The attempts have failed to yield adequate model fit, based on current CFA recommendations. Using the WAIS-R standardization data, it is demonstrated that the WAIS-R can be better conceptualized as measuring a first-order general factor and three orthogonal group-level factors. The results are discussed in relation to Verbal and Performance Intelligence scoring and failed attempts to find relationships between VIQ/PIQ difference scores and external criteria. Because Arithmetic and Digit Span did not share any variance with the other VIQ subtests, independent of General Intelligence, clinicians should reconsider interpreting a VIQ score that includes information from Arithmetic and Digit Span in nonclinical populations. Researchers are encouraged to model intelligence factors as nested factor models, considering their superior model fit, and the increased clarity in the interpretations of relationships between IQ indices and criteria.