Reliability and validity of two tests for non‐verbal memory

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Abstract
Because of its lenient effects on memory, unilateral electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) on the non-dominant hemisphere is routinely used in most ECT units in the Scandinavian countries. Considering the neuropsychological peculiarities of the non-dominant hemisphere, 2 tests were constructed to evaluate the effect of ECT on non-verbal memory. The tests are characterized by visual mode of administration and complex figurative items. They can measure both immediate and delayed memory and exist in 2 parallel forms. Analysis of a number of studies on unilateral non-dominant and dominant ECT indicates that the 2 non-verbal memory tests have good reliability and validity. Convergent validity between the 2 non-verbal memory tests, discriminant validity against tests of verbal memory and criterion-related validity in relation to the influence of different treatment modalities indicate the tests as valid instruments for measuring non-verbal memory. The 2 test forms show satisfactory parallelism. Together with tests of verbal memory, the total battery provides an all-round instrument for studying memory functions after ECT or other cerebral influences.