NCJ Number
111885
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 50 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1986) Pages: 57-59
Date Published
1986
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This study evaluated the validity of two short, inexpensive intelligence tests for use in evaluating mentally deficient offenders.
Abstract
The Ammons Quick Test (AQT) is a pictorial vocabulary test that provides an index of overall cognitive functioning in the form of an IQ, a mental age, and percentiles. The Kent E-G-Y Test is a preliminary measure of mental ability that does not require that the subject read or write. These two measures and the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) were administered to 34 male inmates, 17 to 45 years old, with educational levels of 5 to 15 years. When compared to WAIS full scale scores, scores on the E-G-Y Tests yielded a Pearson r value of .67, while the AQT yielded an r value of .77. Independently, each test can be used to screen offenders for mental deficiency in under 10 minutes. The error rates for false positive and negatives can be reduced by using both instruments in combination. The capability for quicker intelligence screening provided by these measures could greatly enhance case management in correctional settings, particularly in pretrial services and probation. 11 references.