Which of the following factors does NOT influence normative values?

• A. Age
• B. Diagnosis
• C. Test preparation strategies
• D. Functional ability

Answer: (C)

Normative values are statistical benchmarks or averages that are established based on a reference population. These values are influenced by various factors that reflect the typical performance or characteristics of specific groups within that population.

Age is a primary factor because developmental norms vary across different life stages, impacting abilities and performance scores. For example, what is considered a normal range for children may not apply to adults. Similarly, diagnosis can significantly affect normative values since certain health conditions may impact test performance, leading to standardized comparisons within homogeneous groups. Functional ability, which relates to how well an individual can carry out tasks, also directly affects normative values, as those with higher capabilities typically perform better on tests compared to those with impairments.

In contrast, test preparation strategies do not inherently alter the normative values themselves. While preparation can influence an individual’s performance on a test, it is not a demographic or systemic factor that shapes the established norms. Normative values derive from an overarching statistical analysis of a population's baseline characteristics, independent of how well someone may have prepared for a specific test. Consequently, test preparation strategies do not factor into the calculations for normative values, making this the correct response.