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IQ testing

Intelligence testing

Intelligence quotient (IQ) testing is a series of exams used to determine your general intelligence in relation to other people of the same age.

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Many IQ tests are used today. Whether they measure actual intelligence or simply certain abilities is controversial. IQ tests measure a specific functioning ability and may not accurately assess a person's talents or future potential. Results of any intelligence test may be culturally biased.

The more widely used tests include:

• Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence
• Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales
• Differential Ability Scales
• Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children

Functioning abilities that are measured by these tests include language, mathematical, analytical, spatial (for example, reading a map), among others. Each test has its own scoring system.

In general, IQ tests are only one way to measure how well a person functions. Other factors, such as genetics and environment, should be considered.

References

Blais MA, Sinclair SJ, O'Keefe SM. Understanding and applying psychological assessment. In: Stern TA, Fava M, Wilens TE, Rosenbaum JF, eds. Massachusetts General Hospital Comprehensive Clinical Psychiatry. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 7.

Chaves-Gnecco D, Feldman HM. Developmental/behavioral pediatrics. In: Zitelli BJ, McIntire SC, Nowalk AJ, Garrison J, eds. Zitelli and Davis' Atlas of Pediatric Physical Diagnosis. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 3.

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Review Date: 10/31/2022  

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