Critical Item Analysis Enhances the Classification Accuracy of the Logical Memory Recognition Trial as a Performance Validity Indicator

Objective: : Replicate previous research on Logical Memory Recognition (LM_Recog) and perform a critical item analysis.

Method: : Performance validity was psychometrically operationalized in a mixed clinical sample of 213 adults. Classification of the LM_Recog and nine critical items (CR-9) was computed.

Results: : LM_Recog ≤20 produced a good combination of sensitivity (.30-.35) and specificity (.89-.90). CR-9 ≥5 and ≥6 had comparable classification accuracy. CR-9 ≥5 increased sensitivity by 4% over LM_Recog ≤20; CR-9 ≥6 increased specificity by 6-8% over LM_Recog ≤20; CR-9 ≥7 increased specificity by 8-15%.

Conclusions: : Critical item analysis enhances the classification accuracy of the optimal LM_Recog cutoff (≤20).