Date of Award

1997

Publication Type

Doctoral Thesis

Degree Name

Ph.D.

Department

Psychology

Keywords

Psychology, Clinical.

Supervisor

Rourke, Byron P.,

Rights

info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

Abstract

The aims of this study were twofold: (1) to explore theoretical links between the neuropsychological characteristics of individuals with Williams syndrome (WS) and and individuals with the Nonverbal Learning Disabilities syndrome (NLD); (2) to assess the memory functioning of individuals with WS. To this end, a sample of 13 individuals with WS, ranging in age from 7 to 25 years, were administered a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery. The result of this investigation supported the hypothesis regarding similarities between the neuropsychological profiles of individuals with WS and NLD. In addition, the verbal memory functioning of the WS sample was better developed than their nonverbal memory functioning. A tendency to rely on rote learning strategies rather than on strategies that emphasize organizational skills was also evident on the California Verbal Learning Test. These findings were also expected and in support of hypotheses. Expected differences in memory functioning relative to overall verbal and nonverbal functioning (i.e., VIQ/PIQ) were not found. On the basis of similarities in neuropsychological assets and deficits, the relevance of treatment recommendations for individuals with NLD for individuals with WS is discussed. Finally, suggestions for future research were offered.Dept. of Psychology. Paper copy at Leddy Library: Theses & Major Papers - Basement, West Bldg. / Call Number: Thesis1997 .A52. Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 59-08, Section: B, page: 4452. Adviser: Byron P. Rourke. Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Windsor (Canada), 1997.

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