WAIS-IV
Pronunciation: WAYS four
Also written as: WAIS-IV — Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Fourth Edition
Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Fourth Edition, a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment of adult cognitive abilities.
Full Definition
The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV) is the gold standard for measuring adult intelligence and cognitive functioning. The test provides a Full Scale IQ score and four index scores: Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Reasoning, Working Memory, and Processing Speed. In neuropsychiatric practice, WAIS-IV results help identify cognitive strengths and weaknesses, support diagnostic decisions, and guide treatment planning. The assessment is particularly valuable for detecting cognitive decline and differentiating between various neuropsychiatric conditions.
Usage
Usage note: Use Roman numeral IV, not Arabic 4. Hyphenate WAIS-IV when used as acronym.
In Context
- "WAIS-IV results indicated significant discrepancies between verbal and performance abilities." — Neuropsychological report
- "The patient completed WAIS-IV as part of comprehensive cognitive assessment." — Assessment protocol