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

Learn about the concept of Intelligence Quotient (IQ), its history, types of intelligence, scoring, and factors that affect it. Understand the criticisms and limitations of IQ tests.