[Sensitivity, specificity and cutoff point of the Wechsler intelligence scale for children- revised in diagnosis of learning disorders]

ABSTRACT

This research aimed to determine the sensitivity, specificity and cutoff point of the revised version of Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children [WISC-R] in diagnosis of learning disorders. Using a cross-sectional descriptive design and multistage cluster sampling, 45 students with learning disorders and 45 students without learning disorders completed a demographical data questionnaire and WISC-R. The data was analysed by Receiver Operating Characteristic [ROC] curve. The cut point 89 can differentiate children with learning disorders in 94.1% of cases with sensitivity of 71.1% and specificity of 95.6% [p<0.05]. Likewise, a score of 44 in Verbal subscale, was differential in 86.7% of cases with sensitivity of 84.4% and specificity of 86.7% [p<0.05]. A Performance subscale score of 44 was differential in 87% of cases with a sensitivity of 44.4% and specificity of 93.3% [p<0.05]. WISC-R can be used to devise diagnostic checklists for learning disorders in children