Psychological Characteristics of the Epileptic

Abstract

Forty noninstitutionalized epileptics were matched with 40 physically handicapped Ss individuals. A representative battery of psychological tests was administered to both groups. The epileptics and handicapped subjects were compared on 42 variables by batteries of psychological tests, 14 of which proved significant. When the significant predictors were intercorrelated and a Wherry-Doolittle multiple R derived, 3 variables were found to contribute unique variance the (WAIS) Weehslor Adult Intelligence Scale and full scale IQ, Rorschach 2c, and Hand Test CRIP. Results were interpreted as indicating that epileptics tend to resemble patients with organic brain syndromes and appear to be lacking in behavioral control and sensitivity to their condition.