Bender Visual–Motor Gestalt Test
a visuoconstructive test in which the participant first copies line drawings of 16 geometric figures onto blank pieces of paper (Copy Phase) and then redraws them from memory (Recall Phase). All reproductions are scored on a 5-point scale, ranging from 0 (no resemblance) to 4 (nearly perfect). The test is appropriate for individuals ages 4 years and older and is used to assess visual–motor functioning and perceptual ability. It is sometimes also used, albeit controversially, in conjunction with personality tests to determine the presence of emotional and psychological disturbances, such as schizophrenia. Originally developed in 1938 with 9 figures, the test (often shortened to Bender–Gestalt) is now in its second edition (published in 2003). [Lauretta Bender (1897–1987), U.S. psychiatrist]