An investigation into the validity, reliability and clinical utility of the Hillside Assessment of Perceived Intelligence

The development of a new set of scales to measure seven forms of intelligence (Linguistic, Logical-mathematical, Spatial, Kinesthetic, Musical, Interpersonal and Intrapersonal) as delineated by Howard Gardner (1983) is described. The underlying rationale and the operational criteria for the questionnaire are presented. The questionnaire was originally formulated as a means of assessing the pre-morbid intellectual strengths and weaknesses of brain injured persons, but numerous applications for both clinical and non-clinical populations are indicated. The results of two studies investigating factorial and discriminative validity, inter-informant reliability, internal consistency and temporal stability for both brain injured and normal populations are described.;A unique feature of the scales is their reliance on the self and/or significant other as an informant in the completion of a questionnaire to measure and describe intellectual ability in seven spheres. The use of a significant other as a direct reporter, and the establishment of his/her reliability in describing the person's activities, skills and abilities is examined in detail.;Evidence is provided that supports the factorial validity and reliability of the questionnaire as an indirect method of assessing a person's perceived multiple intelligence structure. The objective validity of this assessment is also considered to be a real possibility given certain clinical precautions. Psychological variables that may systematically distort ratings are identified.;The questionnaire has been designed to be used in conjunction with a neuropsychological assessment as a measure of the patient's pre-morbid intelligences to inform the process of cognitive rehabilitation. It is intended to provide information to assist in the design of patient-centered treatment procedures to maximize cerebral reorganization, patient motivation and the active development of effective compensatory strategies. An innovative program based upon the total and direct stimulation of the seven intelligences is presented. Applications for educational and vocational planning are also suggested for both brain injured and normal populations.;A preliminary manual to guide the use of the HAPI is offered.