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 (LMRecog) and perform a critical item analysis.Method : Performance validity was psychometrically operationalized in a mixed clinical sample of 213 adults. Classification of the LMRecog and nine critical items (CR-9) was computed.Results : LMRecog ≤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 LMRecog ≤20; CR-9 ≥6 increased specificity by 6–8% over LMRecog ≤20; CR-9 ≥7 increased specificity by 8–15%.Conclusions : Critical item analysis enhances the classification accuracy of the optimal LMRecog cutoff (≤20).