$Unique_ID{BRK00653}
$Pretitle{Mental and Emotional Conditions}
$Title{What Can an I.Q. Test Really Measure?}
$Subject{intelligence testing I.Q.}
$Volume{E-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Can an I.Q. Test Really Measure?


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QUESTION:  There is a lot of discussion about intelligence tests in our school
district.  A lot of us don't think they mean very much, and are frequently
incorrect in their interpretation.  What can an I.Q. test really measure?

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ANSWER:  First let me say that perfect I.Q. tests would accurately and
completely validate--and reliable predict--a person's intellectual aptitude.
But there are no perfect I.Q. tests.  Controversies about such things as the
definition of intelligence and appropriate methods for evaluating that
aptitude have been with us for decades (yes, even when I took them!) and even
now are still being debated.
     I.Q. tests you probably hear the most about are the currently popular
Wechsler and the Stanford-Binet.  The latter was the leader in the United
States until fairly recently when the Wechsler--which measures a wider variety
of verbal and performance aptitudes--was introduced.
     Nevertheless, I.Q. tests--particularly those that are given individually
as opposed to those administered to groups--to people over six years of age
can be very helpful in identifying intellectual aptitudes and their relative
strengths and weaknesses in specific areas of thinking/learning abilities.
Additionally, I.Q. tests can be very useful in evaluations of patients
suspected of being mentally retarded, those having serious learning
disabilities and/or attention disorders, or those who are exceptionally
talented.
     One of the most important elements in I.Q. scores is analyzing the
specific conditions under which the test was taken, as well as various parts
of the tests.  Also, the tester's degree of skill and rapport with the person
taking the test, scoring procedures, and the test taker's motivation to be
tested, physical and psychological conditions, fatigue, and understanding of
directions are important.  And so you may wish to know that I.Q. tests only
give indications--not absolute truths.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
