Teaching the Halstead Category Test: A survey of post-doctoral fellowships in adult clinical neuropsychology

Abstract

The Halstead Category Test (HCT) is considered among the most sensitive measures for detecting global neurological impairment. Although its ability to localize neurological dysfunction or to assess executive function has been questioned, its demonstrated diagnostic sensitivity to overall cognitive dysfunction remains widely accepted. Nevertheless, its use has declined significantly over the years, owing to complaints regarding the original cumbersome equipment, labor-intensive administration, and overall length. These criticisms were addressed over 30 years ago with the introduction of convenient computer software and validated HCT short forms. This survey examined whether any version of the HCT was being taught in post-doctoral fellowships in adult clinical neuropsychology. Training directors reported that the majority of trainees (63%) were not taught any version of the HCT. A minority were provided only informal training. Several supervisors reported not having been trained on the HCT themselves. Some expressed interest in computer administration and using available HCT short forms, yet these were rarely employed. The findings suggest that concerted promotion of convenient versions of the HCT is required in order for the test not to fall into obsolescence.