An exploration of the construct validity of the Heaton Memory Tests

The Heaton techniques for assessing memory differ from most other memory me asures by employing the combination of learning trials, repeated exposure t o test stimuli, and 4-hour recall measures. The present study was designed to explore the relationship between the Heaton Story and Figure memory proc edures, the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT), and measures of attenti on, word fluency, and spatial perception. Data from 126 individuals were an alyzed. Three separate factor analyses were performed that examined measure s of attention, learning, and recall. Each revealed a three-factor solution accounting for 71,70, and 72% of the variance, respectively. Regression an alyses supported the visual components of Figure Memory and the verbal comp onents of Story Memory obtained in the factor analyses. Overall, the findin gs supported the independence of the Heaton Memory procedures and the role of spatial factors in performance of Figure Memory, Additionally, both proc edures as memory measures. (C) 2000 National Academy of Neuropsychology. Pu blished by Elsevier Science Ltd.