A Systematic Review of Normative Data for Verbal Fluency Test in Different Languages

Area of Science:

• Neuropsychology
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• Verbal fluency tests are classical tools in neuropsychological assessments.
• Numerous normative data sets exist for verbal fluency tests across different languages and countries.

Approach:

• A systematic review was conducted using Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science.
• 183 studies were initially retrieved, with 73 meeting the inclusion criteria.
• Risk of bias analysis was performed on sample selection, characterization, and reporting.

Key Points:

• The review details normative data characteristics, including country, language, task type, and sample demographics (size, gender, age, education).
• It provides an overview and analysis of globally published normative data for verbal fluency tasks.
• Updated information on the qualitative aspects of available verbal fluency assessment options is included.

Conclusions:

• This review aids clinicians in identifying valid and useful normative data for verbal fluency tests.
• It offers a comprehensive analysis of the quality and characteristics of existing international norms.
• The findings support informed selection of appropriate verbal fluency assessment tools.