Construct Validity of the Wisc-III Verbal and Performance Factors for Black Special Education Students

Abstract

The underlying factor structure of the revised edition of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-R) was consistently found to be comparable between regular and special education students as well as across Anglo, Black, and Hispanic populations. A commensurate research base across exceptionality and ethnic group has not been established for the recently published third edition of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-III), making it vital that information regarding the psychometric properties of the WISC-III among diverse groups of children be collected. This study examines the factor structure of the 10 WISC-III core subtests among a sample of Black students receiving special education services. Results provided evidence of a large, first principal factor as well as the expected Verbal and Performance factors. Implications for psychologists are presented, and recommendations for future research are provided.