digit span testing

[halloweenandfireworks]

Have recently read a post on this area of MN regarding requesting separate scores for digit span forwards and backwards on IQ tests and suggesting one showed more auditory problems and one working memory I think.

My DS had WISC IQ test carried out by NHS and scored very highly at above 99th centile except for digit span which was below 25th centile so a huge discrepancy. We were not given the separate scores for forwards and backwards and it was not mentioned.

Would be very greatful if someone could explain how a breakdown of digit span scores would be useful and any website links to enable me to go back to the ed psych and request this info if it would help us to try to understand our DS's problems.

Currently he is struggling at school despite the IQ result but has not been diagnosed with any SN as ASD was ruled out.

Many thanks.

It was me who said it :)

All I know is that my EP said that recalling digits forward (ie repeating what was said) is a test of Auditory Memory, and reciting digits backwards from the order they were said is a test of Working memory. (Having to remember the digits, and then manipulate them)

Below the 25th percentile, while being a big discrepancy, isn't low. (Below 2% is low)

Average is 25 - 75.

Also I think it's a very crude measurement.

No reason just because you have a high IQ, that you should also have good memory. They're two separate things.

This discrepancy wouldn't worry me. Although knowing which type of memory was weak would be useful.....

In what ways does he struggle with school? Academically? Or behaviour? Or socially?