The Rey Complex Figure Test (RCFT) is a neuropsychological assessment that evaluates a person’s visuospatial abilities, memory, attention to detail, planning, and organizational skills. The test involves two main components: copying and memory recall.
Components of the Test:
Copying Task:
- The test-taker is asked to replicate a complex geometric figure (the “Rey figure”) on paper.
- This assesses visual perception, fine motor control, and the ability to organize information spatially.
Immediate Recall Task:
- After a delay, the test-taker is asked to draw the figure from memory.
- This measures visual memory and the ability to recall visual information.
Delayed Recall Task (optional):
- After a longer delay, the test-taker is asked to draw the figure from memory again to assess long-term visual memory.
Recognition Task (optional):
- The individual is shown multiple figures and asked to identify parts of the original Rey figure.
- This evaluates recognition memory and visual attention.
Uses:
- Assessment of brain injury or dysfunction: It is commonly used to detect impairments in individuals with conditions like traumatic brain injury, stroke, or dementia.
- Evaluation of executive functioning: The test helps identify deficits in planning and organizing, which are key aspects of executive functioning.
- Research tool: It is also used in cognitive and developmental research to study visual perception and memory.
Scoring:
- The figure is divided into segments, and each part is scored based on accuracy and placement.
- Errors and distortions are also noted, providing insight into the individual’s cognitive processing and strategies used during the task.
This test can be particularly useful for diagnosing conditions that affect visuospatial abilities and memory, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and ADHD.
