TOMM: Test of Memory Malingering

Abstract

This review of the Test of Memory Malingering (TOMM), by Tom N. Tombaugh, was based on the manual and test materials. It is a test of immediate and delayed visual recognition intended to help distinguish between individuals with true memory impairment and malingerers. It is suitable for ages 16 to 84. The TOMM is well researched, and ample normative information and clinical data support its validity. Surprisingly, neither test-retest nor internal consistency data are presented. It is a well designed, thorough, and systematic test. The manual is clear and concise in describing the TOMM. The composition of the clinical groups is well delineated. That it uses a symptom validity paradigm and offers criterion-based scoring is an advantage-one infrequently seen with other malingering tests. Trials 1 and 2 require approximately 20 minutes to administer. An optional third trial, following a 15-minute delay, requires about 10 more minutes. The TOMM is easily administered bedside or in an office, and is simple and quick to score. The test contains a stimuli book for each of the three trials. These compact books are readily portable. In the second chapter of the manual, Tombaugh offers an excellent description of malingering, tempering its pejorative nature. It might have been more suitable to use the term malingering less frequently in the opening chapter, perhaps substituting "lack of effort" or "lack of motivation" instead.