Comparing ANAM And Impact Computerized Neuropsychological Test Scores Derived From A Group Of Uninjured Intercollegiate Athletes

Context: Athletic trainers have a variety of choices when it comes to selecting the appropriate neuropsychological (NP) test battery to use on their athletes. Recently, the usefulness and validity of NP tests for sport-related concussion has been questioned. Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the construct validity of the computerized neuropsychological test scores derived from the Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metric (ANAM) compared to the Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) test protocol. We hypothesized that the two tests are measuring the same neurocognitive traits. Conclusions: Although the ANAM and ImPACT NP tests are reported to measure similar constructs, the results of this study suggest otherwise. Intuitively one would expect that similar traits be highly correlated (converge) and thus demonstrate construct validity, while dissimilar constructs show little or no association (discriminate). Our results indicate that these two NP test batteries are in fact measuring very different and unique characteristic traits of neurocognitive function. Athletic trainers should understand that not all NP test batteries are created equal.