Clock drawing test in forensic assessment

Abstract Introduction The clock drawing test is a neuropsychological screening test that is frequently used in clinical practice. Aim To evaluate the usefulness of the clock drawing test in the forensic environment. To evaluate 3 methods of correction, and to determine its reliability and validity, and assess its usefulness in judicial processes of modification of legal capacity of a person. Material and methods A total of 40 cases were analysed in legal proceedings. A structured clinical interview, and a neurological and psychopathological examination were conducted using the CAMDEX-R test. The Mini-Mental State Examination, the Global Deterioration Scale, and the clock drawing test were administered to the order corrected using the CAMCOG, Manos and Mendez methods. The sample was divided into 3 groups: degenerative, psychiatric, and without pathology. Results The degenerative group obtained the worst results in the clock drawing test in the 3 correction methods. The reliability and validity of the test were adequate. Patients judged not to be legally capable had a worse performance in the clock drawing test. Conclusions The 3 methods of correction of the clock drawing test are shown to be effective. Evaluating the cost-benefit of the short method is recommended. Patients with a modification of legal capacity ruling showed worse results in the clock drawing test.