Structure of Witkin's Embedded Figures Test.

Abstract

A number of reports have indicated that Witkin's Embedded Figures Test correlates with performance on standard intelligence tests. This finding was replicated in a recent factor analytic study when the test loaded substantially on a factor best representing the performance subtests of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS). However, the embedded figures also loaded on an uncorrelated factor, in addition to those normally associated with WAIS, which would relate well to Witkin's conception of psychological differentiation. These loadings on two uncorrelated factors suggested that the factorial structure of the Embedded Figures Test should be examined. An item analysis indicated a bi-factorial structure and, as presently constituted, the scale will provide misleading and ambiguous information.