Best Performance Method

Synonyms

Cognitive potential

Definition

Neuropsychologists typically do not have an opportunity to evaluate patients before the onset of neurological illness or injury. Judgments about impairment are often made by comparing obtained test scores with estimates of premorbid ability. There are several approaches to estimating premorbid level of ability. One such approach is the Best Performance Method. Using this method, data are collected from multiple sources, including, but not limited to, test scores, observations, interviews, reports from family, and historical data. After the data are collected, the data source that yields the highest level of functioning is the set standard to which all other aspects of functioning are compared. The Best Performance Method assumes that one performance level exists for each person’s cognitive abilities. A notable discrepancy between a patient’s best and other performances is indicative of neuropsychological impairment. The Best Performance Method...