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Arlington, Texas (Sept. 8, 2004) – The IQ test turns 100 this year, marking a century of intelligence measurement.
Psychologist Alfred Binet was commissioned by the French government in 1904 to devise a test that would help school administrators determine which students “could but wouldn’t” achieve academic success and which students had true difficulties. Since then, much has been learned about the nature of intelligence, as well as the uses and limitations of intelligence testing.
“There are a lot of misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding the term IQ,” said Dr. Frank Lawlis, American Mensa’s supervisory psychologist. “Many people are intimidated by the term and generally underestimate their intelligence.”
What do you know about IQ testing? Try this true or false “IQ” quiz:
1. IQ scores may vary depending on the test you are given.
2. Today’s IQ scores are true quotients.
3. The best way to prepare for an IQ test is to study math, math, and more math.
4. People with high IQs will be financially successful.
5. IQ tests are biased against people who don’t speak English.
1. True. Different tests are normed differently, so an IQ score of 130 on one test may be equivalent to an IQ score of 140 on another test. An IQ score is meaningless without the name of the test given.
2. False. Originally, IQ scores resulted from dividing abilities measured for a given group by the average abilities for that age group. The quotient was then multiplied by 100 to obtain the IQ score. Today, IQ scores are determined using a statistical model of ability ranges and variance. It is an averaging approach as opposed to a quotient. The term “intelligence quotient” (IQ) remains as it is familiar to most people.
3. False. There is really no way to study for an IQ test. IQ tests measure how a person thinks as opposed to what they know.
4. False. A high IQ is not necessarily an indicator of wealth, ambition, or career success. It simply indicates that a person has higher-than-average reasoning abilities.
5. False. Many IQ tests are given in English and would be difficult for someone who does not speak English. However, there are many IQ tests that are not language-based and may be used to measure the IQ without the use of language. These tests may be used for non-English speakers, very young children, or those with learning disabilities.
“The purpose of IQ testing is not to boost egos or make people feel separated,” said Dr.Lawlis. “People may think and learn differently depending on their IQ, whether it is in the low, middle, or high range. Determining someone’s IQ score may be a way to help them reach their full potential.”
Mensa is an organization for anyone who scores in the top two percent on an accepted, standardized intelligence test. Mensa members fit no particular stereotype: they range in age from four to 102; are high school dropouts and doctoral candidates; enjoy astrophysics and Buffy the Vampire Slayer; and are doctors, lawyers, postal workers, actors, homemakers, and engineers. The purpose of the organization is to identify and foster human intelligence for the benefit of humanity, encourage research into the nature, characteristics, and uses of intelligence, and to provide a stimulating intellectual and social environment for its members.
About five million Americans are eligible for Mensa membership. On Oct. 16, 2004, the organization will hold its annual National Testing Day. On that day, the Mensa Admission Test will be administered at more than 150 locations nationwide. Test locations may be found at www.previous.us.mensa.org.
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