Frequency of discrepancies between deviation quotients in profiles of children with above-average IQs on the Wechsler intelligence scale for children—Revised

Abstract

To determine the relative rarity (frequency of occurrence) of quotient discrepancies on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children–Revised (WISC-R), clinicians currently consult standard tables whose figures are based on “ all children” in the standardization sample. Such tables are misleading, however, for children at higher IQ levels, where consistently larger discrepancies are found. For children with quotients of 115 and higher, we have constructed a more accurate table, which reflects the prevalence of these larger discrepancies. Though theoretically derived, the table has been confirmed through empirical observation of the WISC-R standardization sample. Use of this table should reduce the “overdiagnosis” of purported learning problems but at the same time allow for accurate identification of Third Factor discrepancies at a time when they are of increasing clinical interest.