What is a primary purpose of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children 5th edition?

The primary purpose of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children Fifth Edition (WISC-V) is to compare a child's cognitive abilities with those of the general population. The WISC-V is an individually administered intelligence test that measures different aspects of intelligence, including verbal comprehension, visual-spatial reasoning, fluid reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. By establishing a child's IQ score and performance in various domains, practitioners can gauge how a child's abilities stack up against age-matched peers, aiding in the identification of strengths and weaknesses in cognitive functioning.

This comparative analysis is essential for various educational and psychological assessments, assisting in the identification of potential learning difficulties and helping guide appropriate educational interventions. Other options, such as identifying learning disabilities or providing therapy recommendations, can be part of the overall process when interpreting the results, but they are not the primary objective of the WISC-V. The test does not focus on emotional intelligence, which is a different construct and typically assessed through other means.