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Discriminant construct validity of ImPACT™: a companion study
A Maerlender1, L Flashman, A Kessler
1Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, USA. Art.Maerlender@dartmouth.edu
The Clinical Neuropsychologist
|January 16, 2013
Summary
This study found that three of four ImPACT™ composite scores (Verbal Memory, Visual Memory, Visual Motor Speed) lacked discriminant validity, questioning their specific construct interpretations. Reaction Time showed adequate discriminant validity, unlike some traditional neuropsychological tests.
Area of Science:
- Neuropsychology
- Sports Medicine
- Psychometrics
Background:
- Previous analysis confirmed convergent construct validity for ImPACT™ test-score composites.
- Discriminant validity analysis was not previously completed.
- ImPACT™ is a widely used computerized neurocognitive test battery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To specifically address the discriminant validity of ImPACT™ composite scores.
- To re-analyze test scores from collegiate athletes using a multi-trait multi-method approach.
- To evaluate the construct specificity of ImPACT™ in comparison to traditional neuropsychological tests.
Main Methods:
- Re-analysis of test scores from 54 collegiate football and hockey players.
- Utilized a multiply operationalized correlation matrix of multi-trait multi-method data.
- Assessed discriminant validity by examining correlations between target scores and other trait measurements.
Main Results:
- ImPACT™ Verbal Memory, Visual Memory, and Visual Motor Speed scores showed high correlations with other composite scores, indicating poor discriminant validity.
- The ImPACT™ Reaction Time composite demonstrated adequate discriminant validity (p=.145).
- Traditional neuropsychological test composites generally showed good discrimination, except for Reaction Time (p=.05).
Conclusions:
- The lack of discriminability in three ImPACT™ composite scores raises concerns for specific construct-oriented interpretations.
- ImPACT™ exhibits construct sensitivity but limited construct specificity.
- Further research is needed to clarify the construct validity of ImPACT™ composite scores in athletic populations.
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