COMPILATION OF PILOT COGNITIVE ABILITY NORMS

Abstract : The cognitive and neuropsychological assessment of United States Air Force (USAF) pilots presents several unique problems given their relatively high cognitive functioning. The USAF currently has a procedure wherein student pilots undergo computerized cognitive assessment. The intent of this assessment is to archive premorbid data and develop clinical methods for the cognitive assessment of pilots. The current work provides the necessary background, clinical methods, and data to assess pilots who have suffered cortical insult such as trauma, disease, or exposure to toxins. Moreover, methods are delineated for those without premorbid testing. The unique contribution of the present work is, first, the very large numbers of subjects used to develop the reference norms. Second, all three major cognitive tests that have been used by the Air Force are included. Third, the tables provide conversion of all possible clinical scores. Finally, actual profile forms are provided for clinical use.