WAIS
Science & Engineering abbreviation · Psychology
| Stands for | Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale |
|---|---|
| Categories | Science & Engineering |
WAIS stands for Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, a psychology abbreviation.
Most widely used individually administered intelligence test for adults, covering ages 16 to 90. A trained examiner gives a series of verbal, visual puzzle, working memory and speed subtests, yielding a full-scale IQ and index scores.
Example: The neuropsychologist administered the WAIS to assess cognitive changes after the head injury.
Usage notes
David Wechsler published the Wechsler-Bellevue scale in 1939 and the first WAIS in 1955; the WAIS-IV appeared in 2008 and the WAIS-5 in 2024. Wechsler introduced deviation IQ, comparing a person with age peers rather than using mental age. Test materials are restricted to qualified professionals to protect validity. Pronounced "wace."
Related abbreviations
More psychology abbreviations
- TAT – Thematic Apperception Test
- ToM – Theory of mind
- TPB – Theory of planned behavior
- UR – Unconditioned response
- US – Unconditioned stimulus
- VCI – Verbal Comprehension Index
- WEIRD – Western, educated, industrialized, rich and democratic
- WISC – Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children
- WM – Working memory
- WMI – Working Memory Index
- WPPSI – Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence
- ZPD – Zone of proximal development