The Peak in Performance across Different Abilities across Age Groups on the Wechsler Abbreviated Scales of Intelligence – Second Edition

James Athanasou

Abstract


This paper describes the pattern of median performance on the sub-tests of the Wechsler Abbreviated Scales of Intelligence across all age groups. The report is based on the median raw score for age groups 6-90 years from the test standardisation (N=2300) cited in the test manual. When compared to performance at age 25, the major finding is that the decline to age 85 is highest for the block design then the matrix reasoning followed by similarities and finally, verbal comprehension sub-tests. There is continuing evidence for the differential decline in abilities. It applies particularly in the area of fluid intelligence and is consistent with previous findings in psychological assessment of cognitive abilities.  Despite an underlying general factor in ability, there is no particular age group which is best on all four tests.


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References


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