Factorial Validity of the German KABC-II at Ages 7 to 12 in a Clinical Sample: Four Factors Fit Better than Five.

Multidimensional intelligence test batteries such as the KABC-II are widely used in clinical practice. Although validity evidence should be provided for all intended uses of a test, data on the factorial validity of the KABC-II mostly relies on the standardization samples and raises some concerns about the adequacy of the factor structure. Confirmatory factor analyses of the KABC-II core subtests were conducted in a sample of 627 children who had been assessed in German Centers for Social Pediatrics. The standard structure of the KABC-II was superior to unidimensional models but, as in previous research, evidenced cross-loadings and a high correlation between and . was more closely related to than to . A four-factorial structure combining subtests from and to form a common factor emerged as a better representation of the data. showed a secondary loading on . On average, most subtest variance was accounted for by the general factor. Models with bonus points for fast responses generally fitted worse than those without. Clinicians should be aware that and measure both visual and fluid abilities. Scales of the KABC-II should not be interpreted as dimensions independent of the general factor.