Reading Assignment 2 Research on Intelligence 19 Reading Selection 2 RESEARCH ON INTELLIGENCE 1 Jn 1996, the American Psychological Association reviewed different studies about intelligence. Here is a summary of those studies: = Heredity influences intelligence. However, we do not know how genes influence intelligence. ™ Going to school is important to the development of intelligence. However, we do not know what parts of schooling are important for intelligence. = There are no important differences between men and women in intelligence. However, there are some differences in specific abilities. Men usually score higher on math skills, and women on verbal skills. ™ Intelligence tests can predict success in school. They can predict high grades. They can also predict the number of years of education a person will complete. = Intelligence tests do not give information about all types of intelligence. They do not tell us about creativity, wisdom, and sensitivity. 2 Researchers continue to study the role of genes in intelligence. In May 1998, Robert Plomin reported the discovery of a gene that is linked to high intelligence. Reports in September 1999 claimed that scientists changed a gene in mice to make them more intelligent. Genes are not the whole answer to the question of what makes us intelligent. More research will tell us more about intelligence. Source: Adapted from Introduction to Psychology, (2001). Elgin, IL: McDougal Littell, pp. 159-160.