Score Structures and Applications of Core Profile Types in the Mccarthy Scales Standardization Sample

Abstract

This study reports the development of a normative profile typology for showing what types of score patterns are commonplace in the standardization sample of the McCarthy Scales of Childien's Abilities (McCarthy, 1972). The benefit of such a core profile typology is that it provides necessary contrasts for testing hypotheses that children's profiles are descriptively or clinically unique. Standard scores from the battery's primary scales were grouped according to similar shape and level using sequential minimum-variance cluster analysis with independent replications. A final solution of five core profile types met all formal heuristic and statistical criteria, including (a) satisfactory internal cohesion, (b) external isolation, (c) replicability, and (d) full coverage of the sample. The five core types are described according to their score configurations and by members' age, gender, race, parental education, and family occupation levels. Typological findings for the McCarthy Scales then are related to core profile types identified previously for the three Wechsler scales. Finally, three methods are presented for testing whether a given child's profile is unique in comparison to subjects in the McCarthy Scales standardization sample.