Exploring the dimensionality of digit span.
The Digit Span subtest from the Wechsler Scales is used to measure Freedom from Distractibility or Working Memory. Some published research suggests that Digit Span forward should be interpreted differently from Digit Span backward. The present study explored the dimensionality of the Wechsler Memory Scale-III Digit Span (forward and backward) items in a sample of heterogeneous neuroscience patients (n = 267) using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for dichotomous items. Results suggested that four correlated factors underlie Digit Span, reflecting easy and hard items in both forward and backward presentation orders. The model for Digit Span was then cross-validated in a seizure disorders sample (n = 223) by replication of the CFA and by examination of measurement invariance. Measurement invariance tests of the precise numerical generalization of trait estimation across groups. Results supported measurement invariance and it was concluded that forward and backward digit span scores should be interpreted as measures of the same cognitive ability.
Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia. sbowden@unimelb.edu.au
Stephen C
SC
Bowden
Vilija M
VM
Petrauskas
Fiona J
FJ
Bardenhagen
Catherine E
CE
Meade
Leonie C
LC
Simpson
D000328:Adult; D001288:Attention; D001925:Brain Damage, Chronic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology*; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology*; D005163:Factor Analysis, Statistical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008570:Memory, Short-Term; D008875:Middle Aged; D015233:Models, Statistical; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011594:Psychometrics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D014888:Wechsler Scales / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*