Intelligence Theories Answer Key

1. Which theory of intelligence proposes eight independent intelligences, including musical, bodily-kinesthetic, and naturalistic?

Correct Answer: C. Gardner's Multiple Intelligences

Explanation: Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences suggests that intelligence is not a single, unified ability but rather a collection of distinct intelligences. He initially proposed seven, and later added an eighth (naturalistic), and considered a ninth (existential). The options B, Thurstone's, and A, Spearman's, focus on different structures of intelligence, while D, Sternberg's, proposes three types of intelligence.

2. Fluid intelligence refers to our ability to:

Correct Answer: B. Reason speedily and abstractly, and solve novel problems

Explanation: Fluid intelligence is defined as the ability to reason quickly and think abstractly to solve novel problems, independent of acquired knowledge. Option A describes crystallized intelligence, and option C describes emotional intelligence. Option D is a general statement about intelligence application but not specific to fluid intelligence.

3. Explain the concept of emotional intelligence and why it is considered important in various aspects of life.

Expected Response: Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to understand and manage one's own emotions, as well as to perceive, understand, and influence the emotions of others. It involves several key components such as self-awareness (recognizing one's own feelings), self-regulation (managing one's emotions effectively), motivation (using emotions to achieve goals), empathy (understanding others' feelings), and social skills (managing relationships).

Emotional intelligence is important because it contributes significantly to success and well-being in many areas of life. In personal relationships, it fosters better communication, conflict resolution, and deeper connections. Professionally, high EQ can lead to improved leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and overall job satisfaction. It helps individuals navigate social complexities, build rapport, cope with stress, and make informed decisions by considering both logical and emotional factors. Studies have shown that emotional intelligence can be a stronger predictor of success than traditional IQ.

4. What is the term for a person's mental age divided by chronological age, multiplied by 100?

Correct Answer: A. Intelligence Quotient (IQ)

Explanation: The formula (mental age / chronological age) * 100 was the original method for calculating Intelligence Quotient (IQ), first introduced by William Stern and famously used in the Stanford-Binet intelligence test. Emotional Quotient (EQ) measures emotional intelligence, and achievement/aptitude scores measure different aspects of ability or learned knowledge.

5. Compare and contrast two different theories of intelligence (e.g., Spearman's G vs. Gardner's Multiple Intelligences).

Expected Response:

Spearman's G Factor Theory:

• Concept: Proposes a single, general intelligence factor, often called 'g', that underlies all specific mental abilities. If you are good at one cognitive task, you are likely to be good at others because of this underlying 'g' factor. He also acknowledged 's' factors, which are specific abilities, but emphasized 'g' as the primary determinant of intellectual performance.
  
  

Gardner's Multiple Intelligences Theory:

• Concept: Argues against a single general intelligence, suggesting instead that individuals possess several distinct and independent intelligences. These include linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalistic intelligences. A person can excel in one or more areas while being average or even below average in others.
  
  

Comparison (Similarities):

• Both theories attempt to explain the nature of human intelligence.
• Both acknowledge that individuals have varying cognitive strengths and weaknesses.
  
  

Contrast (Differences):

• Structure: Spearman's theory is a unitary model, suggesting one overarching intelligence ('g'). Gardner's theory is a pluralistic model, proposing multiple, independent intelligences.
  
• Measurement: Spearman's 'g' is typically measured by standardized IQ tests that combine scores from various cognitive tasks. Gardner's intelligences are harder to quantify with traditional tests and often involve observing real-world performance or specific talents.
  
• Implications: Spearman's theory implies a more generalized academic potential. Gardner's theory suggests that education should cater to diverse strengths and that individuals can be