Utilising the WAIS-III/WMS-III in clinical practice: Update of research and issues relevant to Australian normative research

Abstract

The latest versions of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS) offer some decided advantages over the previous versions. This article discusses the research on the updated versions of the tests with reference to the continuity of construct validity across versions. In addition, there have been some concerns reported about the use of the WAIS-III and WMS-III in Australia due to the absence of local norms. These issues are discussed with reference to data collected in various countries including published factor-analytic research. Other evidence reviewed includes studies on malingering and the effects of clinical conditions such as traumatic brain injury on intellectual and memory performance. These studies support the utility and validity of the WAIS-III and WMS-III in the evaluation of diverse clinical conditions. The recently updated technical manual includes additional data such as discrepancy base rates, and reviews additional recent research utilising the WAIS-III and WMS-III.

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank The Psychological Corporation for their support of this research and for granting permission to use data from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale – 3rd edition standardisation. The authors also thank Leonie Simpson for her assistance.