Coaching Effects on Memory Impairment Simulation
Author Information
Author(s): Rüsseler Jascha, Brett Alexandra, Klaue Ulrike, Sailer Michael, Münte Thomas F
Primary Institution: Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany
Hypothesis
Different coaching methods influence the simulated malingering of memory impairments.
Conclusion
The study shows that symptom validity testing can help detect memory malingering, but coaching can significantly affect test performance.
Supporting Evidence
- The STM-BSV test detected simulators with 67% – 88% sensitivity.
- The AVLT and FIT tests were not effective in detecting simulators.
- Coaching significantly influenced the performance on the STM-BSV test.
Takeaway
This study looked at how coaching affects people's ability to fake memory problems in tests. It found that some tests can catch fakers, but if they know how to cheat, it's harder to tell.
Methodology
Participants were assigned to groups with different instructions on how to simulate memory impairment and were tested using various memory tests.
Potential Biases
The use of a student population may not reflect the performance of individuals with financial incentives to malinger.
Limitations
The study used a simulated malingering design, which may limit generalizability, and participants were mostly university students without financial incentives to malinger.
Participant Demographics
123 undergraduate students or young professionals, and 33 inpatients with mild to severe closed head injury.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website