Goldstein-Shirer tests for abstract and concrete thinking
neuropsychological techniques designed to assess a person’s ability to think abstractly and concretely. The test usually includes a series of tasks in which the examinee is asked to interpret and solve problems related to abstract concepts (e.g., metaphors, proverbs, or analogies) as well as specific situations (e.g., literal problems or straightforward questions). The ability to think abstractly is crucial for higher cognitive functions such as problem-solving, planning, and reasoning, while concrete thinking focuses on immediate, practical tasks. Test results can help identify cognitive impairment associated with conditions such as traumatic brain injury, dementia, or schizophrenia.