Validation of a simple screening test for elementary visuo-spatial perception deficit

Abstract

The reliability and validity of a screening test for a deficit in elementary visuo-spatial perception (EVSP) were evaluated. This prospective study collected performance from 210 typically developing individuals and evaluated the internal consistency of the EVSP screening test. Test-retest reliability was examined with 25 individuals. Validity also involved retrospective clinical data collected from 223 non-typically developing children coming to the hospital for outpatient consultation. Since EVSP matures through childhood, we standardized the EVSP screening test scores by age category and performed Pearson correlations with standardized clinical tests scores. Test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.76) and internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha=0.76) were satisfactory. Construct validity included correlation with the subtests of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale IV (WISC-IV) involving visuo-spatial analysis (Matrix Reasoning and Block Design, P<0.01; Symbol Search and Coding, P<0.05) and was reinforced by the expected non-correlation between the Verbal Comprehension Index and EVSP scoring class. The EVSP scoring class was correlated with Manual dexterity of the M-ABC (P<0.05) and the Working Memory Index (P<0.05) of the WISC-IV including the subtest Arithmetic (P<0.01). This screening test is reliable and valid to evaluate EVSP before more complex cognitive or motor assessment.