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IQ testing

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Illustrations

Normal brain anatomy
Normal brain anatomy

Alternative names    Return to top

Intelligence testing

Definition    Return to top

IQ tests are a series of assessments used to determine the general intelligence, or "intelligence quotient" (IQ), of an individual in relation to other people the same age.

Information    Return to top

There are many IQ tests used today, and the question of whether they measure actual intelligence or simply certain abilities continues to be controversial.

The Wechsler test is the most standardized and widely used exam. Average test results range from 90 - 110:

IQ tests measure a specific functioning ability and may not accurately asses a person's talents or future potential. Results of any intelligence test may be culturally biased.

Update Date: 1/26/2003

Updated by: David Taylor, M.D., Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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