A factorial analysis of the bellevue intelligence tests

Abstract

The intercorrelations of the sub‐tests of the Bellevue Adult Intelligence Scale, as given by Wechsler, are factorised by the centroid method and the solution rotated to a preferred ‘bi‐factor’ pattern. An interpretation is suggested involving a general eductive factor, a verbal comprehension factor, a spatial‐perceptual factor, and a memory factor. The various sub‐tests are evaluated in the light of the matrix, the ‘similarities’, ‘comprehension’, and ‘block designs’ standing out well. The adequacy of the test as a whole, and of the component scales, is considered; and it is finally concluded that caution must be exercised in giving diagnostic significance to the sub‐test profiles.