Individual differences (Gould)

Question 1

Aim(s)?

Answer 1

-To highlight fundamental issues with intelligence testing, specifically in research carried out by psychologist Robert Yerkes (1921)

Question 1

Method?

Answer 1

-The research method used by Yerkes within Gould’s article was psychometric testing
-Gould reviews and critiques Yerkes’ methodology in his article

Question 2

Sample?

Answer 2

-1.75 million US army recruit underwent mental testing during WW1
-Pp’s took one of three tests: Army Alpha (written test), Army Beta (pictorial test) or Individual examination (spoken test)
-Each recruit was graded A-E and the scores used to determine placement in military ranks

Question 3

Results?

Answer 3

-Yerkes found the average mental age of white American adults was 13
-Black men scored lower on average than white men
-Fairer people of Northern and Western Europe have higher scores than darker people of Southern Europe and the Slavs of Eastern Europe

Question 4

Conclusion?

Answer 4

-Yerkes’ date showed the average man could be considered a ‘moron’
-Also concluded it is possible to grade individuals on intelligence testing of this kind and is highly susceptible to bias and leads to racial discrimination

Question 5

Evaluation of sample?

Question 6

Link to reductionism/holism debate?

Answer 6

R:
-Doesn’t consider other cultures’ linguistic abilities which could impact performance on tests
H:
-

Question 7

Link to social sensitivity debate?