Medical Encyclopedia: IQ testing (Print Version)

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Medical Encyclopedia: IQ testing

URL of this page: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001912.htm

Alternative names

Intelligence testing

Definition

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

Information

Many IQ tests are used today, and whether they measure actual intelligence or simply certain abilities continues to be controversial. IQ tests measure a specific functioning ability and may not accurately assess a person's talents or future potential. Results of any intelligence test may be culturally biased.

The Wechsler test and the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales (SC) are the most standardized and widely used exams. Average test results range from 90 - 110:

A score below 70 indicates mental retardation.
A person who scores 130 or higher is usually considered gifted, although different programs set different levels for this classification.
A person with a score of 145-160 is usually classified as highly advanced or very gifted.
A person with a score of 165 or higher is usually classified a genius.

Update Date: 11/15/2006

Updated by: Paul Ballas, D.O., Department of Psychiatry, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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