the Validity and Interpretation of Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children

Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC)

Hello, doctor.
When I was 9 years and 10 months old, I frequently had nightmares for reasons that now seem amusing, so I visited a psychiatrist.
After evaluation, the doctor administered the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-III).
The results were as follows: Verbal IQ (VIQ) score of 86, which corresponds to an IQ of 141; Performance IQ (PIQ) score of 72, corresponding to an IQ of 130; and Full Scale IQ (FIQ) score of 158, corresponding to an IQ of 140.
I would like to know if such tests are credible and recognized, as well as how I would rank among the general population.
For example, in a group of 100, how many would be at the average level? Thank you.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/18

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello, intelligence tests are tools for estimating learning and reasoning abilities.
An IQ score of 130-140 falls within the excellent range, placing an individual in the top 2 out of 100.
These tests only represent a snapshot of one's abilities at a given time, and circumstances may change over the years.
A single intelligence test is merely a guess and estimate of learning potential; typically, gifted assessments require additional supporting evidence of related achievements.

Reply Date: 2016/02/18

More Info

The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) is a widely used tool for assessing the intellectual abilities of children. It provides a comprehensive evaluation of cognitive functioning through various subtests that measure different aspects of intelligence, including verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. The results from these tests can offer valuable insights into a child's cognitive strengths and weaknesses, which can be crucial for educational planning and intervention.

In your case, the scores you provided indicate a significant range of cognitive abilities. The Verbal IQ (VIQ) score of 86 suggests that your verbal comprehension abilities are slightly below the average range, while the Performance IQ (PIQ) score of 72 indicates a lower level of perceptual reasoning skills. However, the Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) score of 158 is exceptionally high, suggesting that there may have been some inconsistencies in the testing process or that the scores reflect different aspects of your cognitive abilities at that time.

The validity and reliability of the WISC are well-established in the psychological community. It has been normed on a large, representative sample of children, which allows for the comparison of an individual's scores to those of their peers. Generally, an IQ score of 100 is considered average, with about 68% of the population scoring between 85 and 115. Scores above 130 are typically classified as "gifted," placing an individual in the top 2% of the population. Therefore, if your FSIQ score of 158 is accurate, it would place you in an exceptional category, far exceeding the average range.

However, it is important to note that a single test score should not be viewed in isolation. Intelligence is a complex construct that encompasses various cognitive abilities, and performance can be influenced by numerous factors, including emotional state, test anxiety, and environmental conditions at the time of testing. Additionally, cognitive abilities can change over time due to various factors such as education, experiences, and interventions. Therefore, while the WISC can provide valuable insights, it is essential to consider it as part of a broader assessment that includes other evaluations, observations, and contextual information.

In terms of your question about the credibility of the test results, it is crucial to consult with a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist who can interpret the scores in the context of your overall cognitive profile and personal history. They can provide a more nuanced understanding of what these scores mean for you and how they might relate to your experiences and challenges.

In conclusion, the WISC is a reliable and valid tool for assessing children's intelligence, but its results should be interpreted carefully and in conjunction with other information. If you have concerns about your scores or their implications, discussing them with a mental health professional can provide clarity and guidance on any necessary steps moving forward.

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