Christopher Koch, Ph.D. and Gale Roid, Ph.D.
Age Range: 3-75+ years-of-age
Time: Approximately 5 minutes
Qualification Level: A
Based on more than 20 years of Stroop-effect research by the author, the Nonverbal Stroop Card Sorting Test (NSCST) is a 5-minute test to assess cognitive-interference processes in children and adults, ages 3 to 75+. Nationally standardized on more than 1,000 individuals and co-normed with the Leiter-3, the NSCST uses pantomime, non-vocal test administration methods to identify process deficits in executive functioning and attention processes. The test uses procedures proven effective in many years of computerized Stroop research, adapted for individual assessment.
The test can be used alone or in combination with other Stroop measures (e.g., the Nonverbal Stroop Subtest of the Leiter-3 or Golden’s Colour-Word Stroop test) within a cognitive, or neuropsychological, battery of tests. Two sets of cards—one with matching colour bars (“colour congruent”) and one with non-matching colour bars (“colour incongruent”)—to contrast the speed (cards per second) with which the individual sorts the cards onto a large laminated sheet showing locations for each colour. The difference between the congruent and incongruent trials reveals the degree of Stroop interference, hence the “Stroop Effect.” The effect score can then be converted to a national percentile or standard score for the examinee’s age group to assess the magnitude of any unusually large difference in sorting speed, showing evidence of process deficits.
The NSCST Kit includes two sets of Cards, laminate Sorting Sheet, Stopwatch, 25 Record Forms and Manual. The Manual summarizes the theory and research on Stroop effect, administration and scoring methods, interpretation and case studies, development and standardization, reliability and validity of the instrument.
