Neurocognitive Profiles Associated With Limited English Proficiency in Cognitively Intact Adults

Objective The objective of the present study was to examine the neurocognitive profiles associated with limited English proficiency (LEP). Method A brief neuropsychological battery including measures with high (HVM) and low verbal mediation (LVM) was administered to 80 university students: 40 native speakers of English (NSEs) and 40 with LEP. Results Consistent with previous research, individuals with LEP performed more poorly on HVM measures and equivalent to NSEs on LVM measures-with some notable exceptions. Conclusions Low scores on HVM tests should not be interpreted as evidence of acquired cognitive impairment in individuals with LEP, because these measures may systematically underestimate cognitive ability in this population. These findings have important clinical and educational implications.