American sign language translation of the VCI from WISC-V

ABSTRACT

Psychological testing is often problematic for deaf people. Many psychologists avoid exploring language-based reasoning in this population given numerous validity concerns and a general lack of understanding of how one might administer these tests in a way that is sensitive to one's language history. This approach, however, leaves a large area of cognition unexplored. Those who do assess language-based reasoning are at risk of drawing inaccurate conclusions given the complex nature of language-based reasoning in individuals with a unique language background. As a follow-up to Bridgett (2018), this study was originally developed to investigate the validity of the VCI with a sample of deaf children to better understand what the construct was measuring. However, due to COVID-19 and the resulting limitations of in-person data collection, this study's focus shifted towards developing a standardized version of ASL administration for the VCI. In the current study, the investigator collected feedback from the signing community and developed a definitive ASL administration through back and forward translations, cognitive debriefings, and reconciliations. The ultimate objective of this study is to provide psychologists with additional tools for the VCI administration, including a training material for the standardized ASL translation. Another objective is for psychologists to learn about the limitations of the translation and the index per se. With this information, the investigator aims to increase the cultural and linguistic sensitivity involved in administering the VCI to deaf and hard of hearing children who speak ASL. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved)