The development of cognitive complexity: Cross-sectional and longitudinal evidence

Author(s): Sorensen, S., Lerner, J. V., Lerner, R. M.

Journal/Book: Z Entwicklungspsychol Padago. 1998; 30: Rohnsweg 25, D-37085 Gottingen, Germany. Hogrefe & Huber Publishers. 139-148.

Abstract: This research investigates whether (1) a cognitive complexity factor exists that is developmentally stable, and (2) whether the relationships that this factor has to other cognitive variables are also stable. Using a cross-sectional adult sample it is shown that there is a common factor structure that describes cognitive complexity in three cohorts spanning the age range from 18 to 70. The relationship of cognitive complexity to memory performance is age-independent also. Cognitive complexity enhances reproduction of texts. In a longitudinal study involving adolescents it is shown that, across four observation points, indicators of cognitive complexity can be explained from a time-independent second order cognitive complexity factor. An autoregressive structure of cognitive complexity does not seem to exist in this age bracket. In contrast, visual-cognitive performance does possess an autoregressive structure. In addition, cognitive complexity predicts visual-cognitive performance. Developmental implications are discussed.

Note: Article vonEye A, Michigan State Univ, Dept Psychol, 119 Synder Hall, E Lansing,MI 48824 USA

Keyword(s): cognitive complexity; stability; memory performance; visual-cognitive performance; factor structure; VERBAL MATERIAL; MODELS

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