Intelligence Quotient (IQ) Fundamentals

What is IQ?

• Intelligence Quotient (IQ) is a measure of human intelligence
• It is a score derived from one or more standardized tests designed to assess human intelligence

History of IQ

• The concept of IQ was first introduced by German psychologist William Stern in 1912
• Later, psychologist Lewis Terman developed the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale, which is still used today

Types of Intelligence

• There are multiple types of intelligence, including:
  1. Verbal-Comprehension Intelligence: ability to understand and use verbal information
  2. Perceptual-Reasoning Intelligence: ability to think logically and solve problems
  3. Working Memory Intelligence: ability to hold and manipulate information in short-term memory
  4. Processing Speed Intelligence: ability to quickly and accurately process visual information

IQ Score

• IQ scores are calculated by comparing an individual's performance to that of a large sample of people of the same age
• The average IQ score is set at 100, with a standard deviation of 15
• IQ scores can be classified into several categories, including:
  • Genius: 140 and above
  • Gifted: 120-139
  • Above Average: 110-119
  • Average: 90-109
  • Below Average: 80-89
  • Intellectual Disability: below 70

Factors Affecting IQ

• Genetics: IQ is influenced by genetic factors, but the exact degree of influence is still debated
• Environment: IQ can be influenced by environmental factors, such as access to education and nutrition
• Socio-Economic Status: IQ can be affected by socio-economic status, with higher SES individuals tend to have higher IQ scores

Criticisms of IQ

• Cultural Bias: IQ tests may be biased towards certain cultures or socio-economic groups
• Limited Scope: IQ tests only measure a narrow range of cognitive abilities, and may not reflect real-world intelligence
• Oversimplification: IQ scores can be oversimplified, and do not capture the complexity of human intelligence