The construct specificity of the continuous performance test: Does inattention relate to behavior and achievement?

Abstract

A computerized version of the Continuous Performance Test (CPT) was administered to 104 children, ages 6 to 16 years, referred to a medical center for learning difficulties. The CPT performance of children was examined in relation to the Wide Range Achievement Test‐Revised, the Peabody Individual Achievement Test‐Revised Reading Comprehension subtest, the ADD‐H Comprehensive Teacher's Rating Scale, and the Conners Parent Rating Scale. Correlations were computed to evaluate the relation between the CPT and all psychometric measures. Results indicated that the CPT was unrelated to academic functioning, but CPT commission errors correlated with behavioral measures: Commission errors were related to oppositional behavior and the Conners hyperactivity index, providing further evidence for the diagnostic utility of the CPT. Implications for clinical neuropsychology practitioners were discussed.