What is the primary purpose of the Wechsler scales in intelligence testing?

The Wechsler scales are designed to assess a broader spectrum of cognitive abilities rather than just providing a single measure of intelligence. This comprehensive approach allows for the evaluation of different aspects of intelligence, including verbal and nonverbal skills, which can reveal strengths and weaknesses in various cognitive domains. By including subtests that measure areas such as reasoning, memory, and processing speed, the Wechsler scales offer a more nuanced profile of an individual's intellectual functioning. This multi-faceted assessment is particularly useful for educators, clinicians, and researchers who need to understand the individual performance and potential of a person beyond a singular score.