Theories of Intelligence MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Theories of Intelligence - Download Free PDF

Charles Spearman proposed this theory in the year 1923.

• According to his theory, intelligence consists of two factors: ‘g’ and ‘s’, where ‘g’ stands for the generalized factor and ‘s’ stands for the specific factor. 

Key Points

• As per Spearman, the ‘g’ factor is responsible for different tasks which are common for all people.
• G-factor is a universal innate ability to perform all cognitive tasks effectively. 
• The general factor (g) underlies overall cognitive ability and supports the development of specific competencies, enhancing performance across various tasks and skills.

Hint

• General factor in every person is large: This is not accurate. Spearman's theory posits that the general factor (g) is present in all individuals but not necessarily in a large or predominant amount. It is more about the universal cognitive abilities that contribute to various specific skills.
• Specific factor in every person is large: This is not correct. The specific factor (s) pertains to abilities related to particular tasks or skills, and it varies depending on the individual. It is not necessarily large or dominant in everyone.
• Specific factor is useful in all functions for a person: This is incorrect. Specific factors (s) are related to particular skills or tasks and do not necessarily apply to all functions or general abilities.

Hence, we conclude that the correct answer is 'general factor is supplementary for the development of competencies'.

GARDNER’S THEORY OF MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCES:

• Howard Gardner (1983), an American Psychologist, proposed the theory of multiple intelligences.
• In his book ‘Frames of Mind’, he pointed out that he did not believe there was “one form of cognition which cut across all human thinking. There are multiple intelligences with autonomous intelligence capacities.” So, intelligence cannot be viewed as a single entity. Different types of intelligence are independent of each other.
• Further, people may have varied combinations of this intelligence.
• Gardner initially proposed eight types of intelligence which later on he increased to nine. Thus Gardner views each individual as a unique combination of various intelligence, hence we cannot say that one is more intelligent and another is less intelligent. Each one of us is talented in unique ways. 

Important Points

NOTE: The following table will provide a complete idea of Howard Gardener's 8 types of Intelligence.

Hence, we can conclude that in the context of the ‘theory of multiple intelligences, verbal intelligence is required for a lawyer.

Theory of Multiple Intelligence which describes eight different kinds of intelligence is propounded by an American cognitive psychologist 'Howard Gardner'. This theory emphasizes that:

• intelligence can't be tied to a single domain.

• each individual has his/her own unique abilities.

• intelligence is of several kinds and not dominated by a general factor.

This theory suggests that if a teacher faces difficulty to make learning easy for a learner in a traditional way, he/she must adopt different ways according to the unique abilities and intelligence of the learner.

Important Points

Refer to the diagram to know the eight types of intelligence.

Hence, it could be concluded that Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences emphasizes the unique abilities of each individual.

Howard Gardner, a developmental psychologist, challenged the traditional view of intelligence as a single, fixed ability measured by IQ. Instead, he proposed the theory of Multiple Intelligences, which broadens the concept of intelligence beyond academic or logical abilities to include a variety of human capacities.

Key Points

• Gardner proposed that intelligence can be differentiated into multiple kinds, such as linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalistic intelligences.
• He emphasized that each person possesses a unique combination of these intelligences, and that educational approaches should be designed to nurture them accordingly.
• This theory highlights the diversity of human potential and moves beyond the narrow focus on memorization or test performance.

Hint

• Intelligence being only about recall and memorization reflects a limited and outdated perspective, not Gardner’s view.
• While emotional learning is important, it is only a part of Gardner’s broader theory (covered under interpersonal and intrapersonal intelligences), not the sole focus.
• The idea that intelligence is influenced only by genetics contradicts Gardner's belief in the roles of both biology and environment in shaping intelligence.

Hence, Howard Gardner proposed that intelligence can be differentiated into multiple kinds.

Sternberg's Triarchic Theory of Intelligence proposes that intelligence is multidimensional and consists of three interrelated components.

Key Points

Sternberg's Triarchic Theory of Intelligence divides intelligence into three sub-theories:

• Componential Sub-Theory: Focuses on the internal mental processes involved in intelligence. It includes:
  • Meta Component: Higher-order processes used to plan, monitor, and evaluate problem-solving.
  • Performance Component: Processes involved in executing the plans or solutions.
  • Knowledge-Acquiring Component: Mechanisms for learning new information.
• Experiential Sub-Theory: Focuses on creativity and the ability to deal with new situations, which includes the Creative Component.
• Contextual Sub-Theory: Emphasizes practical intelligence and the ability to adapt to the environment.

Hence, the correct answer is creativity component as it belongs to the experiential sub-theory, not the componential sub-theory.

Howard Gardner proposed the theory of multiple intelligences. According to him, intelligence is not a single entity; rather distinct types of intelligence exist.

• Each of these intelligence is independent of each other. This means that, if a person exhibits one type of intelligence, it does not necessarily indicate being high or low on other types of intelligence. 
• Gardner also put forth that different types of intelligence interact and work together to find a solution to a problem.
• Gardner studied extremely talented persons, who had shown exceptional abilities in their respective areas, and described eight types of intelligence.

Key Points

Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence is one of the types of intelligence given by Gardner. 

Bodily-kinesthetic Intelligence- 

• It entails the potential of using one’s whole body or parts of the body to solve problems. It is the ability to use mental abilities to coordinate bodily movements.
• people who have bodily-kinesthetic intelligence should learn better by involving muscular movement and are generally good at physical activities. 
• Careers that suit those with this intelligence include athletes, dancers, musicians, actors, surgeons, doctors, builders, police officers, and soldiers. 

Thus from above-mentioned points, it is clear that Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence is required for an airforce pilot. 

Additional Information

Following are types of intelligence-

Thurstone’s Primary Mental Abilities/Group Factor Theory:

The analysis of interpretation of Spearman’s and others’ general factor theories led Thurstone to conclude that ‘certain’ mental operations have in common a ‘primary’ factor that gives them psychological and functional unity and that differentiates them from other mental operations. These mental operations then constitute a group.

The second group of mental operation has its own unifying primary factor, and so on. In other words, there are a number of groups of mental abilities, each of which has its own primary factor, giving the group a functional unity and cohesiveness. Each of these primary factors is said to be relatively independent of the others. Thurstone has given the following seven primary factors:

• The Number Factor (N) refers to the ability to do rapid and accurate numerical calculations.
• The Verbal Factor (V) refers to the ability of verbal comprehension.
• The Space Factor (S) is involved in a task requiring the manipulation of the imaginary objects in space.
• Memory (M) involves the ability to memorize quickly.
• Word Fluency (W) refers to the ability to think of isolated words at a rapid rate.
• Reasoning (R) refers to the ability to discover a rule or principle involved in a series or groups of letters.
• Perceptual Speed (P) is the ability to note visual details rapidly. Based on these factors Thurstone constructed a new test of intelligence known as “Test of Primary Mental Abilities (PMA).”

Hence, we conclude that Emotion is not a factor of Thurstone PMA.

Intelligence: Intelligence can be defined as the ability to grasp information, understand concepts, and solve problems. It should be noted that the Theory of Multiple Intelligence was proposed by Howard Gardner. 

Key Points According to him, there are 8 types of intelligence explained below:

Hence, conclude that as per Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences, all types of intelligence are valued in schools.

The Theory of Multiple Intelligence which consists of eight different kinds of intelligence is propounded by an American psychologist 'Howard Gardner'.

 Key Points

• Gardner initially proposed eight types of intelligence which later on he increased to nine. Thus Gardner views each individual as a unique combination of various intelligence.
• This theory emphasizes that intelligence is of several kinds rather than dominated by a general factor and intelligence can't be tied to a single domain as each individual has his/her own abilities.

Important Points

The nine types of intelligence as given by Gardner:

• Linguistic Intelligence refers to the ability to use language. It is the capacity to use spoken and written words in a skilled way.
• Logical-mathematical Intelligence is the ability to use logical reasoning and mathematical ability. Individuals high on this intelligence have good abstract reasoning, critical thinking, and good in dealing with numbers.
• Musical Intelligence is the ability to use rhythms, sounds, and patterns to create, compose and perform music. It involves sensitivity to music, and the ability to recognize and manipulate musical patterns.
• Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence is the ability to use and control one’s body movements and actions. Dancers and sports persons are usually high in such intelligence.
• Spatial Intelligence is the capacity to perceive, understand and use spatial and visual information effectively. Such people are good at spatial orientation, forming visual images and patterns.
• Interpersonal Intelligence refers to the ability to understand others and social interactions. They can understand the emotions and the perspectives of others and relate well to others.
• Intrapersonal Intelligence is the ability to understand oneself and know one’s thoughts, emotions, feelings, motives, and desires, and how these influence their behavior.
• Naturalistic Intelligence is the ability to recognize and understand the various patterns in nature. It includes sensitivity to nature with all its features including flora, fauna, and all biodiversity.
• Existential Intelligence: Gardner added existential intelligence as the ninth intelligence which refers to the sensitivity and capacity to tackle deep questions beyond sensory data and about human existence. It concerns the ‘big picture’ in life and the ultimate truth of life. Cosmologists and philosophers are high on this aspect of intelligence.

Hence with the above given information we can conclude that Howard Gardner multiple intelligence include linguistic musical and spatial intelligence.

The Triarchic Theory of Intelligence is proposed by 'Robert Sternberg', an American psychologist. He is known for his research and work which are always based on human intelligence and creativity.

The Triarchic Theory is comprised of three sub-theories, each of which relates to a specific kind of intelligence:

• the contextual sub theory, which corresponds to practical intelligence, or the ability to successfully function in one’s environment.
• the experiential sub theory, which corresponds to creative intelligence, or the ability to deal with novel situations or issues.
• the componential sub theory, which corresponds to analytical intelligence, or the ability to solve problems.

Important Points

This theory advocates that intelligent behavior takes place from a balance among three aspects of intelligence which are contextual, experiential, and componential intelligence. These three distinct types of intelligence are also known as practical, creative, and analytical intelligence.

• Practical intelligence: Practical intelligence is related to the contextual sub theory. Practically intelligent people are especially adept at behaving in successful ways in their external environment.
• Creative intelligence: The experiential sub theory is related to creative intelligence, which is one’s ability to use existing knowledge to create new ways to handle new problems or cope in new situations.
• Analytical intelligence: The componential sub theory is related to analytical intelligence, which is essentially academic intelligence. Analytical intelligence is used to solve problems.

Hence, it could be concluded that the triarchic theory of successful intelligence was given by 'Robert Sternberg'.

Additional Information

• Spearman: Two-Factor Theory (General & Specific factor)
• Binet: Uni-factor Theory (General factor)
• Thorndike: Multi-Factor Theory (Abstract, Social, and Mechanical factor)

Intelligence: Intelligence can be defined as the ability to grasp information, understanding concept, and solving problems. It should be noted that the Theory of Multiple Intelligence was proposed by Howard Gardner. 

Key Points

According to him, the following are types of intelligence explained below:
 

Hence, we conclude that interpersonal intelligence, according to Gardener, enables individuals the capacity for reflective understanding of others and oneself.

Intelligence refers to the capacity to acquire and apply knowledge. It is the ability to solve problems, learn from experiences, and apply knowledge to deal with new situations.

Key Points

• There are many theories related to intelligence. These theories are propounded by eminent psychologists to provide a framework to understand different aspects of human intelligence.
• The theory of Multiple Intelligence which consists of eight different kinds of intelligence is propounded by an American psychologist 'Howard Gardner'. 

This theory emphasizes that:

• intelligence is of several kinds rather than dominated by a general factor.
• intelligence can't be tied to a single domain as each individual has his/her own abilities.

• how cultures shape the potential of the human using Intelligence as a multi-dimensional set of complex abilities. 

Important PointsThe following table will provide a complete idea of Howard Gardener's 8 types of Intelligence.

There are many theories related to intelligence. These theories are propounded by eminent psychologists to provide a framework to understand different aspects of human intelligence.

• L. L. Thurstone has propounded ‘Primary Mental Abilities / Group Factor Theory’, he believed that certain mental operations have a primary factor differentiating them from other mental operations.
• The theory emphasizes that intelligence is not a general or specific factor rather a combination of seven different primary mental abilities which includes spatial, perceptual, numerical, verbal, etc.  
• In other words, there are a number of groups of mental abilities, each of which has its own primary factor, giving the group functional unity and cohesiveness. Each of these primary factors is said to be relatively independent of the others. 

Key Points

Thurstone has given the following seven primary factors:

• The Number Factor (N) refers to the ability to do rapid and accurate numerical calculations.
• The Verbal Factor (V) refers to the ability of verbal comprehension.
• The Spatial relations (S) is involved in a task requiring the manipulation of the imaginary objects in space.
• Memory (M) involves the ability to memorize quickly.
• Word Fluency (W) refers to the ability to think of isolated words at a rapid rate.
• Reasoning (R) refers to the ability to discover a rule or principle involved in a series or groups of letters.
• Perceptual Speed (P) is the ability to note visual details rapidly.

Hence, we conclude that the number factors of 'primary mental ability' enables the individual to do numerical calculations rapidly and accurately.

The theory of Multiple Intelligence which consists of eight different kinds of intelligence is propounded by an American psychologist 'Howard Gardner'. 

This theory emphasizes that:

• intelligence is of several kinds rather than dominated by a general factor.
• intelligence can't be tied to a single domain as each individual has his/her own abilities.

Key Points

The above-mentioned characteristic is related to the Interpersonal Intelligence of Howard Gardner’s theory as:

• Interpersonal intelligence deals with understanding and relating to other’s feelings.
• A person with interpersonal intelligence can understand various emotional states of other people.
• Interpersonal intelligence is the ability to respond appropriately to moods, temperaments, and intentions of others.

Hence, it could be concluded that the above-mentioned characteristic is related to the Interpersonal Intelligence of Howard Gardner’s theory.

NOTE: Refer to the diagram to know the category of intelligence suggested by Howard Gardner: 

The Triarchic Theory of Intelligence is proposed by 'Robert Sternberg', an American psychologist. He is known for his research and work which are always based on human intelligence and creativity.

The Triarchic Theory is comprised of three sub-theories, each of which relates to a specific kind of intelligence:

• the contextual sub theory, which corresponds to practical intelligence, or the ability to successfully function in one’s environment.
• the experiential sub theory, which corresponds to creative intelligence, or the ability to deal with novel situations or issues.
• the componential sub theory, which corresponds to analytical intelligence, or the ability to solve problems.

Important Points

This theory advocates that intelligent behavior takes place from a balance among three aspects of intelligence which are contextual, experiential, and componential intelligence. These three distinct types of intelligence are also known as practical, creative, and analytical intelligence.

• Practical intelligence: Practical intelligence is related to the contextual sub theory. Practically intelligent people are especially adept at behaving in successful ways in their external environment.
• Creative intelligence: The experiential sub theory is related to creative intelligence, which is one’s ability to use existing knowledge to create new ways to handle new problems or cope in new situations.
• Analytical intelligence: The componential sub theory is related to analytical intelligence, which is essentially academic intelligence. Analytical intelligence is used to solve problems.

Hence, it could be concluded that the following three aspects of intelligence are dealt with by Sternberg’s Triarchic Theory, except social aspect.