Performance on the California Verbal Learning Test After Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

The California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT; Delis, Kramer, Kaplan, & Ober, 1987) data of 150 patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) were evaluated to determine the latent underlying constructs as well as the possibility of performance subtypes with criterion validity. Confirmatory factor analysis of eight competing latent variable models suggested that a four-factor model (composed of Attention Span, Learning Efficiency, Delayed Recall, and Inaccurate Recall) fit the data relatively well. Two-stage cluster analysis of marker variables of each of these four factors suggested the presence of four reliable subtypes. Level of performance differences between these clusters were related to injury severity parameters. It is concluded that the CVLT is a sensitive and mulitfactorial measure of learning and memory after TBI. Specific recommendations for interpretation of clinically obtained CVLT profiles are provided.

Theoretically derived CVLT subtypes in HIV-1 infection: Internal and external validation

“…Altogether, these criteria resulted in a total of 14 CVLT variables. The variables used in the present investigation are the same variables previously used by Wiegner and Donders (1999). Table 1 depicts these variables according to each of the eight hypothesized factor models.…”

“…It is possible that individuals with HIV-1 infection exhibit distinct patterns of verbal learning and memory, as found in the traumatic brain injury literature (Curtiss et al, 2001;Deshpande et al, 1996;Millis & Ricker, 1994;Wiegner & Donders, 1999).…”

“…The present study tested eight models of the CVLT latent structure suggested by Wiegner and Donders' (1999) investigation of individuals with traumatic brain injury (see Table 1). It is possible that individuals with HIV-1 infection exhibit distinct patterns of verbal learning and memory, as found in the traumatic brain injury literature (Curtiss et al, 2001;Deshpande et al, 1996;Millis & Ricker, 1994;Wiegner & Donders, 1999).…”

“…More specific hypotheses regarding CVLT subtypes could not be made until reliable subtypes were discerned from the clustering procedures. In accordance with Wiegner and Donders (1999), only those CVLT variables with the highest factor loadings (i.e., factors from the best fitting model) were used in the cluster analysis. This method ensures that variable redundancy is reduced, and more importantly, that variables are selected based on theoretical considerations (Morris & Fletcher, 1988).…”

“…Confirmatory factor analysis was used to evaluate eight models of the CVLT structure suggested by Wiegner and Donders (1999). A four-factor model, consisting of Attention Span, Learning Efficiency, Delayed Recall, and Inaccurate Recall appeared to be the best fitting model.…”