Basically, it’s a test that measures intelligence.
What Are IQ Tests Used For?
IQ tests are used as a measure of intelligence.
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They also can be used to diagnose learning disabilities.
As a result, the use of IQ tests to place African-American children in special education classes was banned.
Furthermore, IQ tests can overlook other forms of intelligence, including socio-emotional skills and interpersonal relationship skills.
What Exactly Did James Flynn Discover?
In 1984, James Flynn discovered a 13.8-point IQ score increase between 1932 and 1978.
In other words, people’s IQs increased by about 3 points per decade.
Basically, the Flynn Effect found that people’sIQ scoresrise over time.
People’s IQs increased by about 3 points per decade.
What Causes the Flynn Effect?
Consider how influential IQ tests have been in our society.
It is a general marker of whether or not someone is deemed intelligent.
It has been used as an instrument contributing todiscrimination, like in the case ofLarry P. v. Riles.
It can determine whether or not someone receives essentialdisability aidfrom the United States government.
Beyond that, it can be what influences the outcome of a capital punishment case.
Therefore, the accuracy of IQ tests is essential to maintaining a fair and just society.
Inaccuracy of these tests can lead to furtheroppression.
The Flynn Effect has also led many to feel positive that intelligence is only evolving across decades.
This can inform the public opinion of how humans are growing and adapting to our rapidly changing society.
Instead, it may be more indicative of a changing society.
Not only has this hypothesis been debunked, but it can also lead to anti-immigration rhetoric.
Let us not forget how theLarry P. v. Rilescase illustrated how problematic IQ tests can be for disenfranchised populations.
Can We Rely on IQ Tests?
Human intelligence is far more complicated than a standardized test can capture.
These changes need not be fearedthey can instead be bravely embraced.
Trahan L, Stuebing KK, Hiscock MK, Fletcher JM.
The flynn effect: a meta-analysis.Psychol Bull.
2014;140(5):1332-1360. doi: 10.1037/a0037173
The New York Times.When an I.Q.
Score is a Death Sentence.
