Exploring the Validity and Reliability of the WISC-IV: A Review of the Literature

Abstract

This study seeks to examine the psychometric properties, namely the validity and reliability as well as the overall psychometric quality of the WISC-IV. For this purpose, a systematic review of the literature was carried out. Data analysis revealed that the fourth edition of the Wechsler scale for children is more sophisticated in form and content, in line with the modern approaches and familiar models of intelligence and the measurement of mental abilities. However, research in the field of psychometric quality of this test does not give a clear picture of its interpretive power or its contribution to diagnostic evaluation. Despite its relative utilization in differential diagnostic and diagnostic assessment procedures, there is a strong criticism regarding its structural validity and the models on the basis of which it is explained, as well as the dominant structure emerging from WISC-IV. Over time, the four-factor model seems to be abandoned and its analysis oriented towards a five-factor model, in line with the CHC theory of intelligence and cognitive abilities. All in all, this study enriches our theoretical and practical understanding about the WISC-IV giving rise to other studies in this field.