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The Short NART: utility in a memory disorders clinic
R S Bucks1, M I Scott, T Pearsall
1Department of Care of the Elderly, University of Bristol, Blackberry Hill Hospital, Fishponds, UK.
The British Journal of Clinical Psychology
|February 1, 1996
Summary
The Short National Adult Reading Test (NART) offers a quicker way to estimate full NART scores, but its accuracy for predicting premorbid IQ in clinical settings is questionable. Further modifications are needed before recommending its use.
Area of Science:
- Neuropsychology
- Cognitive Assessment
Background:
- The National Adult Reading Test (NART) is a common tool for estimating premorbid intelligence.
- A shortened version (Short NART) was developed to reduce testing time and distress for individuals with low reading ability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the accuracy of the Short NART in predicting full NART scores and WAIS IQ scores.
- To assess the clinical utility of the Short NART for estimating premorbid IQ in a Memory Disorders Clinic population.
Main Methods:
- Cross-validation of the Short NART against full NART and WAIS IQ scores in a large sample.
- Application of the Short NART to 202 consecutive referrals at a Memory Disorders Clinic.
Main Results:
- While the Short NART showed modest confidence in estimating premorbid IQ in a general sample, its accuracy was unsatisfactory in the clinical setting.
- Discrepancies between Short NART and full NART error scores were clinically and statistically unacceptable.
- Variations in word pronunciation accuracy were identified as a potential source of error.
Conclusions:
- The Short NART's appeal for estimating premorbid IQ is acknowledged.
- However, due to significant accuracy issues in a clinical context, its use cannot be recommended without further modifications.