MALINGERING DETECTION WITH THE DOT COUNTING TEST

The Dot Counting Test (DCT) offers a technique for malingering detecti on that is less transparent than the forced-choice resting that has re ceived so much recent attention. The present study defined six depende nt variables derived from DCT responses, and examined these variables in rile context of differentiating simulators from non-simulators. Fou r groups of subjects were studied: normal controls, neuropsychological evaluation patients, naive (uncoached) malingering simulators, and so phisticated (coached) malingering simulators. Results demonstrate that the DCT provides several different scores that significantly differ b etween simulators and non-simulators. The DCT appears to hold promise as an additional tool to neuropsychologists in the detection of maling ering. (C) 1997 National Academy of Neuropsychology.