Neuropsychological profile on the WISC-IV of French children with dyslexia

J Learn Disabil. 2010 Nov-Dec;43(6):563-74. doi: 10.1177/0022219410375000. Epub 2010 Jul 8.

Abstract

This study examined the pattern of results on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-IV; French version) for 60 French children with dyslexia, from 8 to 16 years of age. Although use of WISC-III failed to clearly identify typical profiles and cognitive deficits in dyslexia, WISC-IV offers an opportunity to reach these objectives with new indexes and subtests. The mean performance analysis showed a Working Memory Index (WMI) at a limit level, significantly lower compared to the three other indexes. The WMI was the lowest index for 68% of the population studied and was significantly weaker for children with phonological dyslexia compared to children with surface dyslexia. WISC-IV evidenced preserved language and reasoning abilities in contrast to limited verbal working memory efficiency. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Cognition Disorders / etiology*
  • Dyslexia / complications
  • Dyslexia / physiopathology*
  • Female
  • France
  • Humans
  • Intelligence Tests*
  • Male
  • Memory, Short-Term*
  • Thinking