Intelligence Testing
According to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, intelligence is described as the ability to apply knowledge to manipulate one's environment or to think abstractly as measured by objective criteria. Many psychologists have their own view on what intelligence really is and the debate over its true definition is very controversial. Most agree, however, that intelligence measures our ability to adapt to challenges. Intelligence varies for every person. It has been proven that intelligence tests can accurately predict performance on the job, dropping out of high school, and even chances of divorcing. These tests are not always completely accurate though. Many times these tests can be culturally biased and provide inaccurate results. Some psychologists believe intelligence is influenced by genetics, others believe it is environment which influences intelligence. I personally believe a combination of environment, genetics, and health determine a person’s in intelligence. Alfred Binet was one of the first psychologists to create an intelligence test. He created this test so the French public school system could properly place their students. Over time, the Binet test has been changed and modified by many other psychologists. D
Environment is another major factor that is hypothesized to influence intelligence. Many times, people can be influenced by stereotypes. This is called stereotype vulnerability. People will believe they can only achieve so much, and only achieve that much. Home environment and styles of parenting can also influence intelligence. People will perform differently depending on how much they are encouraged at home and depending on the type of relationship they have with their family. A very controversial topic among psychologists dealing with intelligence today is the nature versus nurture theory. In the Confucian societies of East Asia individual differences in endowment are assumed to be modest, and differences in achievement are thought to be due largely to effort. In the West, however, many students of the subject believe that intelligence is inborn and one can do little to alter their intelligence. It seems very extreme to believe one theory completely, especially since no conclusive evidence has been found to support either theory. Personally, I believe that genetics account for a portion of intelligence. The studies between heredity and IQ scores suggest a strong relationship. So many traits are passed on through genes; I believe intelligence must also be one of them. But, I do not think that heredity is the sole determiner of intelligence. I have no doubt that environment plays a key role in determining intelligence. Depending on the way a person is raised, their attitude, and the opportunities given to them, their intelligence can be stimulated and changed. Health also plays a role in determining Intelligence, a person who is sick, mentally or physically, cannot accurately show their intelligence with the typi
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Approximate Word count = 1175
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)
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