Detecting noncredible performance with the neuropsychological assessment battery, screening module: A simulation...

Area of Science:

• Neuropsychology
• Cognitive Assessment
• Traumatic Brain Injury Research

Background:

• The Neuropsychological Assessment Battery, Screening Module (S-NAB) is a widely used cognitive screening tool.
• Currently, the S-NAB lacks embedded composite performance validity test (PVT) formulas.
• Developing such formulas is crucial for ensuring the validity of S-NAB results.

Purpose of the Study:

• To empirically derive and validate composite, embedded PVT formulas within the S-NAB.
• To assess the effectiveness of these new PVT formulas in distinguishing between valid and invalid performance.
• To enhance the diagnostic utility of the S-NAB in clinical and research settings.

Main Methods:

• A simulation paradigm was employed with 72 university students randomly assigned to Asymptomatic (AS) or simulated mild traumatic brain injury (S-mTBI) groups.
• Participants completed a neuropsychological battery including the S-NAB and various PVTs.
• Symptom and test coaching were provided to the S-mTBI group to simulate impairment, while the AS group performed optimally.

Main Results:

• Significant differences were observed between groups across all S-NAB domains and PVTs (p < .001).
• The Attention (S-ATT) and Executive Function (S-EXE) domains exhibited the largest effect sizes.
• Two novel PVT formulas were derived, achieving 90.3% classification accuracy and high discriminability (AUCs = .96-.97).

Conclusions:

• This research presents the first composite, embedded PVT formulas specifically designed for the S-NAB.
• The developed formulas demonstrate strong performance in identifying invalid test performance.
• These findings have significant implications for improving the accuracy and reliability of cognitive assessments using the S-NAB.