Race-related cognitive test bias in the active study: a mimic model approach

Exp Aging Res. 2010 Oct;36(4):426-52. doi: 10.1080/0361073X.2010.507427.

Abstract

The present study investigated evidence for race-related test bias in cognitive measures used in the baseline assessment of the ACTIVE clinical trial. Test bias against African Americans has been documented in both cognitive aging and early life span studies. Despite significant mean performance differences, Multiple Indicators Multiple Causes (MIMIC) models suggested most differences were at the construct level. There was little evidence that specific measures put either group at particular advantage or disadvantage and little evidence of cognitive test bias in this sample. Small group differences in education, cognitive status, and health suggest positive selection may have attenuated possible biases.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging / physiology*
  • Bias
  • Black or African American / statistics & numerical data
  • Cognition / physiology
  • Cognition Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Cognition Disorders / ethnology*
  • Educational Status
  • Female
  • Florida
  • Geriatric Assessment
  • Health Behavior
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Neuropsychological Tests*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • White People / statistics & numerical data