Factor Structure of the Motor-Free Visual Perception Test-3rd Edition (MVPT-3)

Abstract

Background. The Motor-Free Visual Perception Test–3rd edition (MVPT-3) is commonly used to assess the visual perceptual functioning of adults. MVPT-3 users need to be knowledgeable about its factor structure and dimensionality. Purpose. To investigate the factor structure and dimensionality of the MVPT-3 when used with adults with and without neurological impairment. Methods. The MVPT-3 scores of 221 participants aged 20+ years (49 with and 172 without neurological impairment) were used to complete a principal components analysis of the MVPT-3 scale. Findings. The MVPT-3 test items loaded upon 11 viable factors, accounting for 58.15% of the test's total variance. Implications. The MVPT-3 exhibited multi-dimensionality instead of the predicted unidimensionality and therefore may not be an appropriate measure of overall visual perceptual ability in its current format. Consequently, healthcare professionals who use the MVPT-3 to assess the visual perception of their clients should exercise caution when attempting to interpret its results.