This study assessed the effect of a temporary dysphoric mood upon selected subtests from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R). Male and female college students were assigned randomly to either an audiotape-induced dysphoria condition (n = 34) or a control condition (n = 34). Pretests of intelligence and mood revealed no differences between groups. Both groups were administered Arithmetic, Similarities, Block Design, and Object Assembly from the WAIS-R. Subjects in the temporary dysphoria condition scored significantly lower than did controls on Block Design and Object Assembly. Implications for everyday testing practices are discussed.
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