Relationship of Block Design with Motor Function
Date of Award
2023
Document Type
Doctoral Research Paper
Degree Name
Psy.D.
Organizational Unit
Graduate School of Professional Psychology
First Advisor
Laura Meyer
Second Advisor
Jennifer Peraza, Psy.D.
Third Advisor
Hale Martin
Keywords
Neuropsychology, Visuospatial ability, Motor function
Abstract
The definition and measurement of visuospatial abilities (VSA) has been a complex journey since the inception of cognitive, intelligence, and neuropsychological testing. For years, neuropsychologists attempting to measure VSA have often turned to the Block Design (BD) test from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), which is a timed measure requiring the participant to use both hands to construct a design out of blocks that matches a picture. The BD test has been a standard inclusion in the assessment of VSA for decades and research suggests a correlation of BD with other visuospatial tests. However, literature also indicates BD is correlated with other cognitive abilities. Moreover, a small but growing body of research has suggested a relationship between BD with various motor functions and the neuroanatomical regions associated with psychomotor functions. Yet, no studies to date have directly assessed the relationship of BD with motor function. This study aimed to better understand this possible relationship between BD and motor function. Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted and motor function was found to account for a small, but statistically significant amount of variance in BD performance.
Publication Statement
Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.
Extent
41 pgs
Recommended Citation
Levy, Melissa J., "Relationship of Block Design with Motor Function" (2023). Graduate School of Professional Psychology: Doctoral Papers and Masters Projects. 495.
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/capstone_masters/495