Development of alternative versions of the Logical Memory subtest of the WMS-R for use in Brazil

Abstract

The logical memory test of the Wechsler Memory Scale is one of the most frequently used standardized tests for assessing verbal memory and consists of two separate short stories each containing 25 idea units. Problems with practice effects arise with re-testing a patient, as these stories may be remembered from previous assessments. Therefore, alternative versions of the test stimuli should be developed to minimize learning effects when repeated testing is required for longitudinal evaluations of patients. OBJECTIVE: To present three alternative stories for each of the original stories frequently used in Brazil (Ana Soares and Roberto Mota) and to show their similarity in terms of content, structure and linguistic characteristics. METHODS: The alternative stories were developed according to the following criteria: overall structure or thematic content (presentation of the character, conflict, aggravation or complements and resolution); specific structure (sex of the character, location and occupation, details of what happened); formal structure (number of words, characters, verbs and nouns); and readability. RESULTS: The alternative stories and scoring criteria are presented in comparison to the original WMS stories (Brazilian version). CONCLUSION: The alternative stories presented here correspond well thematically and structurally to the Brazilian versions of the original stories.