Lecture 4 - Theories of intelligence 1

Question 1

Factor analysis?

Answer 1

• correlations are the basis of factor analysis
• the task of factor analysis is to group variables that are most related or correlated
• it is a more complex method of defining an operational definition
• you use several variables to define the unobservable factor
• correlations between all factors are positive – implying that all the factors derived from individual tests have something in common- and this common factor is called the g-factor or g

Question 2

Spearman?

Answer 2

• observed children’s performance ratings across seemingly unrelated subjects and found that they were positively correlated
• developed the earliest version of factor analysis
• developed a 2-factor theory of intelligence
  -> a persons mental test score can be divided into 2 factors, 1 = is the same in all tests (g factor) and which varies from 1 test to another (specific factor)

Question 3

What can general intelligence (g) be divided into to - Cattell?

Answer 3

1. Fluid (gf) intelligence
   - the biologically limited capacity for processing information
   - refers to reasoning and novel problem solving ability
   - strongly associated with working memory
   - better tested by Raven’s matrices
2. Crystallized (gc) intelligence
   - acquired knowledge and skills
   related to cultural/ historical background of individuals
   - is intelligence that increases throughout life and is a reflection of one’s cumulative learning experience
   - better tested by Wechsler tests