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Tests of verbal memory (list learning) are particularly useful for clinicians and researchers globally, yet there are no psychometrically robust tests that are built indigenously for Arabic-speaking populations, which comprise more than 370 million. To develop a verbal memory Arabic test using a systematic procedure of item selection and then provide evidence of validity and reliability in an Arabic-speaking sample in Lebanon. In study 1, we conducted a word prototypicality study (n = 77), and identified 932 words across 7 semantic categories. Following quantitative analyzes and qualitative judgments by an expert panel, we selected a sufficient number of words and categories, and constructed and piloted the items, instructions, and protocol for the Verbal Memory Arabic Test (VMAT). In study 2, we administered the VMAT on a community sample (n = 199; screened for depression and cognitive impairment) and patients with Multiple Sclerosis (n = 16). Scores decreased with age as expected, they discriminated well between healthy and clinical populations (matched on age, sex, and years of education), and showed acceptable consistency within items and across time. Conclusions: The VMAT is the first Arabic test developed indigenously. It can be used in clinical and research settings with Arabic-speaking populations to assess verbal learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to provide normative data for four trials of the Rey figure Test - a complex design used to assess visuoconstructional abilities, aspects of visual memory, and aspects of executive functioning. Despite its frequent clinical and research use in the Arab region, published studies regarding the measures' adaptation or normative data remain absent. Method: We administered the Rey figure on a convenience sample of Lebanese (n = 254) aged 30 years to 99. Results: We examined the impact of relevant demographics, and found that age, gender, and years of education impacted scores, and norms were derived based on these variables. Such normative data for the Rey figure enhance its practicality and psychometric adequacy for use in research and clinical settings in Lebanon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]