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Preschool embedded figures test performance of young children: age and gender differences
J C Busch1, J A Watson, V Brinkley
1University of North Carolina at Greensboro 27412.
Insights
The Preschool Embedded Figures Test showed modest reliability and some expected age and gender differences in young children. However, overall evidence suggests its weak utility for measuring field independence in this age group.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Cognitive Assessment
Background:
- The Preschool Embedded Figures Test (PEFT) is used to assess field independence in young children.
- Previous literature guided predictions for PEFT performance in a specific age range.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the performance and reliability of the Preschool Embedded Figures Test (PEFT) in a sample of 3- to 5-year-old children.
- To assess the PEFT's validity as a measure of field independence for early childhood.
Main Methods:
- A literature analysis informed predictions for the study.
- A small, cross-sectional sample of 37 children aged 3-5 years was tested.
- Statistical analysis examined score reliability and age- and gender-related differences.
Main Results:
- Preschool Embedded Figures Test scores demonstrated modest reliability.
- Observed age-related differences and an age-by-gender interaction aligned with predictions.
- Other predictions regarding PEFT scores were not supported by the data.
Conclusions:
- The study provides weak evidence for the continued use of the Preschool Embedded Figures Test in young children.
- The PEFT's utility as a measure of field independence for 3- to 5-year-olds is questionable based on this small sample.
Abstract:
An analysis of the literature was the basis for a set of predictions regarding the Preschool Embedded Figures Test performance of a small, cross-sectional sample of 37 3- to 5-year-old children. The test scores were modestly reliable. Predicted age-related differences in scores for boys and girls were observed, including an interaction of age with gender; however, other predictions regarding those scores were not supported. Based on a small sample, it was tentatively concluded that the evidence for continued use of the Preschool Embedded Figures Test as a measure of field independence for young children was weak.