WAIS-R Subtests
The principal measures obtained from the WAIS-R are Full-Scale, Verbal and Performance IQ, but scores on the 11 subtests can sometimes provide additional information of use to the counselor. It is important to remember that subtest scores, if reviewed separately, should be normed to the client's age group, and the scaled scores used to obtain the IQs are not. Age normed scaled scores for the subtests, if reported by the examiner, are always in parentheses. If the counselor wants this information she may need to ask the examiner for it.
In reviewing subtest scores it is important to remember that they are based on far less data than what is used to determine the IQ scores, and shorter tests are not as valid or reliable as longer ones. The mean for all 11 WAIS-R subtests is 10 and the standard deviation 3.
Information
General knowledge about the world (for individuals growing-up in America). Strongly reflective of knowledge and facts learned in school.
Comprehension
Common sense judgement and practical reasoning.
Arithmetic
Ability to solve arithmetic problems quickly and accurately. Involves a significant amount of concentration as well as basic math skills.
Similarities
Verbal concept formation.
Digit Span
Involves auditory attention, concentration, and memory tracking.
Vocabulary
Verbal and general mental ability.
Performance Subtests
Digit Symbol
Involves motor persistence, sustained attention, response speed, and visual-motor coordination.
Picture Completion
Visual recognition, remote memory and general information. To some degree fine visual acuity.
Block Design
Visuospatial organizational abilities.
Picture Arrangement
Reflects social sophistication, socially appropriate thinking, and sequential thinking.
Object Assembly
Visuospatial organizational abilities.
