Newly developed Learning and Verbal Memory Test (TAMV-I): Normative data for Spanish-speaking pediatric population

Area of Science:

• Neuropsychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• Accurate interpretation of cognitive tests relies on normative data specific to the population.
• Existing normative data for the Learning and Verbal Memory Test (TAMV-I) may not adequately represent Spanish-speaking pediatric populations.
• Establishing culturally relevant norms is crucial for valid neuropsychological assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate normative data for the Learning and Verbal Memory Test (TAMV-I) in Spanish-speaking children.
• To provide a standardized reference for interpreting verbal memory performance in pediatric populations across diverse regions.
• To facilitate accurate neuropsychological evaluations in Latin America and Spain.

Main Methods:

• A large sample of 4,373 healthy children from nine Latin American countries and Spain participated.
• Participants completed the TAMV-I as part of a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment.
• Normative scores for free recall, memory delay, and recognition were established using multiple linear regressions, controlling for age, age squared, sex, and parental education level.

Main Results:

• Age was a significant predictor of all TAMV-I scores, with performance generally increasing with age.
• The effect of age squared varied across countries and subtests, indicating non-linear developmental trajectories.
• Parental education and sex also influenced scores, with girls often outperforming boys on certain measures.

Conclusions:

• This study presents the most extensive normative data for the TAMV-I in Spanish-speaking children globally.
• The generated norms will enhance the accuracy of TAMV-I interpretation for pediatric populations in the studied regions.
• This research supports improved clinical decision-making and diagnostic accuracy in pediatric neuropsychology.