WAIS—R factor structure in psychiatric and general medical patients.

Examined the factor structure of the WAIS—R in a sample of 200 general medical (GM) patients and 271 psychiatric patients. The mean age of the Ss was 38.9 yrs. Results of 2- and 3-factor principal factor solutions with varimax rotations were compared to the factor structure of the WAIS—R normative sample (n?=?1,880) and a sample of vocational counseling patients (n?=?84), as well as an additional sample of psychiatric patients (n?=?114). Across all of these samples, coefficients of congruence for the 1st 2 factors (Verbal, Performance) were .97 or greater, and coefficients of congruence for the 3rd factor (Freedom From Distractability) ranged from .93 to .97. Results indicate that the WAIS—R has a robust factor structure and provides empirical evidence for the existence of Verbal, Performance, and Freedom From Distractability factors on the WAIS—R in psychiatric and medical populations. (13 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)