The Test of Memory Malingering (TOMM) is a 50-question

visual memory Visual memory describes the relationship between perceptual processing and the Encoding (memory), encoding, Storage (memory), storage and Recall (memory), retrieval of the resulting neural representations. Visual memory occurs over a broad time ...

recognition test that discriminates between true memory impairment and

malingering Malingering is the fabrication, feigning, or exaggeration of physical or psychological symptoms designed to achieve a desired outcome, such as personal gain, relief from duty or work, avoiding arrest, receiving medication, or mitigating prison se ...

, with two learning trials and an optional retention trial following a delay. It was first published in 1996 and is intended for testing individuals ages 16 and older. The test has been shown to have high levels of

sensitivity and specificity In medicine and statistics, sensitivity and specificity mathematically describe the accuracy of a test that reports the presence or absence of a medical condition. If individuals who have the condition are considered "positive" and those who do ...

, and is largely insensitive to depression and anxiety.

Use with children

The TOMM has also been examined with pediatric samples. The research with this measure has supported the use of adult criteria for suboptimal effort with children as young as 5 years old with a variety of diagnoses including

ADHD Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation that are excessive and pervasive, impairing in multiple ...

autism Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences or difficulties in social communication and interaction, a preference for predictability and routine, sensory processing d ...

, and

fetal alcohol syndrome Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) are a group of conditions that can occur in a person who is exposed to alcohol during gestation. FASD affects 1 in 20 Americans, but is highly misdiagnosed and underdiagnosed. The several forms of the ...

References

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