Purpose

The test assesses visual and perceptual organization, the ability to encode and decode incoming information, working memory function, and the capacity for planning and effective problem-solving.

Brief Description

The test consists of 9 different picture sequences presented as black-and-white sketches. Each sequence represents a short, humorous story. The examinee is asked to arrange the images in the correct chronological-causal order so that the story makes logical sense and follows a coherent sequence.

Validity

The test demonstrated high discriminative ability during its experimental application phase. Discriminant analysis showed accurate reclassification of participants in the original sample at a rate of 81%. It can also be used as a supplementary tool in the diagnosis of dementia.

Reliability

The test showed a sensitivity of 76% and a specificity of 71%, with a cutoff value of 2.5/8. These values confirm the tool’s reliability in distinguishing individuals with Alzheimer’s-type dementia from cognitively healthy older adults.

Data Analysis and Use

Each story is scored from 1 to 8, depending on the number of correctly ordered images. The total score is the sum of all individual story scores. The test was experimentally administered to a sample of 25 individuals with Alzheimer’s-type dementia and 17 healthy age-matched participants. It is used for both research and diagnostic purposes, with applicability to elderly populations.

Bibliography

Darali, N., Roditou, A., Tsatnali, E., Tsolaki, M., & Pita, R. (2005, March 31–April 3). Can “picture sequencing” differentiate patients with dementia from non-demented elderly? 4th Panhellenic Interdisciplinary Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki.
Wechsler, D. (1981). Manual for the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale – Revised. New York: The Psychological Corporation.