WAIS-IV Cognitive Profiles in Italian University Students with Dyslexia
Marika Iaia1, Francesca Vizzi2, Maria Diletta Carlino2
1Laboratory of Applied Psychology and Intervention, Department of Experimental Medicine, College ISUFI, University of Salento, Ecotekne, Via per Monteroni s.n., 73100 Lecce, Italy.
Journal of Intelligence
|August 27, 2025
Summary
Adults with dyslexia show distinct cognitive profiles, with challenges in working memory and processing speed but average verbal and perceptual reasoning. These patterns aid in diagnosing dyslexia, even in those with compensated reading skills.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Educational Psychology
Background:
- Dyslexia is a common learning disorder affecting reading and spelling.
- Understanding the cognitive profile of adults with dyslexia is crucial for accurate diagnosis and support.
- Previous research has focused on children, with less data on adult cognitive patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the specific cognitive profiles of Italian university students diagnosed with dyslexia.
- To compare the cognitive abilities of dyslexic students with a matched group of non-dyslexic peers.
- To identify cognitive indicators that can predict dyslexia in adults.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV) for cognitive assessment.
- Compared 36 university students with dyslexia to 35 matched controls without specific learning disorders.
- Employed logistic regression to determine the predictive value of cognitive indices for dyslexia.
Main Results:
- Dyslexic adults had lower Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) scores, though within the average range.
- Deficits were observed in Working Memory Index (WMI) and Processing Speed Index (PSI) among dyslexic participants.
- Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI) and Perceptual Reasoning Index (PRI) scores were similar between groups.
- WMI and PSI emerged as significant predictors for discriminating between dyslexic and non-dyslexic adults.
- Dyslexic adults showed lower Cognitive Proficiency Index (CPI) relative to their General Ability Index (GAI).
Conclusions:
- Adults with dyslexia exhibit a unique cognitive profile characterized by specific weaknesses and relative strengths.
- The identified cognitive pattern, particularly WMI and PSI, can assist in the diagnosis of dyslexia in adults.
- This cognitive profile is valuable for identifying dyslexia, especially in individuals who have developed compensatory reading strategies.
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