The test-retest reliability of the McCarthy Screening Test

Examined the test-retest reliability of the MST. Ss were 971 5- and 6-year-olds, who were tested early in the school year. Those "at risk" on the first test were retested 4 to 10 weeks later (N = 276). Obtained reliability coefficients for the six subtests ranged from .30 to .83. A comparison of the results with the statistics reported in the test manual was made, and it was concluded that the MST is not stable enough to be used alone to identify children with potential learning problems.