Use of the Abbreviated Portland Digit Recognition Test in Simulated Malingering and Neurological Groups

The number of forensic referrals continues to climb in neuropsychology, and clinicians are frequently asked to assess the role client motivation plays in impaired cognitive performance. The present study compared the efficacy of the abbreviated and full scale PDRT, using cutoffs recommended in the literature, in correctly identifying simulated malingerers, neurological patients, and normal controls. The effects of warning simulators about malingering detection were also examined. Results indicate that from 47 to 61% of simulated malingerers were detected, depending on the form of PDRT and the cutoff used, with the abbreviated forms equivalent to the full scale PDRT in detection rates. There was not a significant difference between Warned simulators and Naïve simulators in detection rates on either the full scale or abbreviated PDRT. These findings suggest the abbreviated PDRT could be useful in clinical settings, especially when used in conjunction with other detection strategies.