Intelligence has been a controversial topic in the history of psychology and there still continues to be disagreement in the components that are responsible for the make-up of it (Cherry, 2018). There are several theories of intelligence. Major theories include the following:
General Intelligence (Charles Spearman) used factor analysis to examine mental aptitude.
Primary Mental Abilities (Louis Thurstone) focused on seven mental abilities.
Verbal comprehension
Reasoning
Perceptual speed
Numerical ability
Associative memory
Spatial visualization
Multiple Intelligences (Howard Gardner) instead of IQ test scores, (8) types of intelligences based on skills and abilities.
Visual-spatial intelligence
Verbal-linguistic intelligence
Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence
Logical-mathematical intelligence
Interpersonal intelligence
Musical intelligence
Intrapersonal intelligence
Naturalistic intelligence
Triarchic Theory of Intelligence (Robert Sternberg) Referred to "successful intelligence," which involves three different factors.
Analytical/Componential intelligence: Your problem-solving abilities.
Creative/Experiential intelligence: Your capacity to deal with new situations using past experiences and current skills.
Practical/Contextual intelligence: Your ability to adapt to a changing environment.
Cherry, K. (2018). Theories of intelligence in psychology.
Question: There are major questions about intelligence and IQ testing still. Chose a question below and support your answer. * You may earn participation points for answering a question on intelligence.
Is intelligence a single ability, or does it involve an assortment of multiple skills and abilities?
Is intelligence inherited, or does the environment play a larger role?
Are intelligence tests biased?
What do intelligence scores predict, if anything?