Abstract
This study describes psychometric properties of the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery (NIHTB-CB) Composite Scores in an adult sample. The NIHTB-CB was designed for use in epidemiologic studies and clinical trials for ages 3 to 85. A total of 268 self-described healthy adults were recruited at four university-based sites, using stratified sampling guidelines to target demographic variability for age (20-85 years), gender, education, and ethnicity. The NIHTB-CB contains seven computer-based instruments assessing five cognitive sub-domains: Language, Executive Function, Episodic Memory, Processing Speed, and Working Memory. Participants completed the NIHTB-CB, corresponding gold standard validation measures selected to tap the same cognitive abilities, and sociodemographic questionnaires. Three Composite Scores were derived for both the NIHTB-CB and gold standard batteries: Crystallized Cognition Composite, Fluid Cognition Composite, and Total Cognition Composite scores. NIHTB Composite Scores showed acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's alphas=0.84 Crystallized, 0.83 Fluid, 0.77 Total), excellent test-retest reliability (r: 0.86-0.92), strong convergent (r: 0.78-0.90) and discriminant (r: 0.19-0.39) validities versus gold standard composites, and expected age effects (r=0.18 crystallized, r=-0.68 fluid, r=-0.26 total). Significant relationships with self-reported prior school difficulties and current health status, employment, and presence of a disability provided evidence of external validity. The NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery Composite Scores have excellent reliability and validity, suggesting they can be used effectively in epidemiologic and clinical studies.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 588-598 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society |
Volume | 20 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2014 |
Keywords
- Attention
- Cognitive assessment
- Cognitive screener
- Executive Function
- Memory
- Neuropsychological assessment
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Clinical Neurology
- Psychiatry and Mental health
- Clinical Psychology
- Neuroscience(all)
- Language and Linguistics
- Linguistics and Language