Testing logical memory using a complex passage : development and standardization of a new test.

Several passages are available to test verbal (logical) memory. Those standardized for use in India are, however, short and simple. As a result, limited dispersion of scores, or ceiling effects, are observed when these tests are administered to young and highly educated populations. This study presents an exercise in the development and standardization of a longer and more complex passage. The passage was administered to 121 residents of Bangalore and 92 residents of Cochin. Significant effects of age decade, gender, and city were observed on memory performances. Group data are presented for each decade of life; these have potential normative value. It is suggested that this test will be useful when assessing populations in whom the conventional passages fail to provide adequate dispersion, or result in ceilling effects.