Validation and standardization of neuropsychological tests for the evaluation of praxias and gnosias in university students (Evaluation of praxias and gnosias)

Abstract

Introduction: Most specialized literature focuses on the study of cognitive functions regarding brain injuries, which can relate to why praxias and gnosias are rarely discussed from a normality perspective. Objective: This article describes the results from a validation and standardization study of tests for the evaluation of praxias and gnosias. Material and methods: 208 healthy university students were evaluated. The following tests were validated and standardized: Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (copy) and visual retention test, visual discrimination and orientation judgment (Benton test). The following tests and analyzes were performed: appearance validity (expert judgment), content validity (factor analysis), concurrent criterion validity (correlation coefficient), internal consistency (Omega coefficients) and intra- and inter-rater reliability (proportion of correct answers, correlation coefficient and comparison of paired medians). Results: Adequate content validity was evidenced in all tests; adequate criterion validity in praxis evaluation measures; low criterion validity, internal consistency and test - retest reliability for gnosias and praxias tests. Conclusions: It is advisable to use the most appropriate test according the cultural context in which it is applied, as well as standardized instruments for the target population.