intelligence

The definition of the so frequently used intelligence- Term tends to be difficult. In everyday life it is used in different ways and always defined differently. This is due to the fact that there are different types of intelligence that are included under this term.

What is intelligence

In principle, intelligence is nothing more than a collective term used in psychology. At the highest level of definition, psychologists refer to intelligence as the cognitive performance of humans. The term comes from Latin and means something like "to choose between something". A definition in the narrower sense can thus be approached.

Intelligence is measured by the actions of the person and determined by what he chooses - what he "chooses". However, since the limitation of cognitive abilities in itself is already a point of contention in specialist circles, it is problematic to draw up a generally applicable definition that is suitable for schools. Speaking superficially, intelligence is the ability to cope with different situations and solve problems through thought.

Neuropsychology as well as general and differential psychology deal with intelligence and use various methods of developmental and brain research.

The intelligence quotient (IQ) of a person can be measured with so-called intelligence tests. Here, different thinking tasks from different areas are set that have to be solved. The IQ is measured on the basis of the result.

One of the best-known models of intelligence is a theory by Charles Spearman, according to which there is a connection between the various abilities of humans, which he describes as factor g. This general factor of intelligence determines the intelligence level of the person. Other psychologists speak of multiple intelligences that can be viewed relatively independently of one another.

Function & task

The intelligence can be seen to a good extent as a benchmark. Psychologists assume that the population's intelligence quotient is 100 on average. Doctors and psychologists use the measurements in individuals to check whether there is a deviation from average intelligence. A difference of 15 IQ points corresponds to the typical fluctuations.

Intelligence fulfills an important function in everyday life and at work. It describes how well a person is able to deal with tasks and problems that are regularly set or put in their way. Intelligent people on average have better school grades and enter higher positions in their professional life.

Nevertheless, other factors also play a role in this area, so that we can only speak of guide values ​​here. Diligence and ambition can balance a lower IQ. A certain basic intelligence is still required for this. Statistically, intelligent people also live healthier and thus reach an older age.

Intelligence also plays an important role in social coexistence. It influences the interaction with others and so often determines with whom individuals will voluntarily surround themselves with. In many cases intelligence correlates with social class and can therefore hardly be described as static. However, both heredity and environmental influences play a major role in this question.

In addition, the current state of mind and concentration play a decisive role in intelligence tests. In addition, thinking tasks can be learned and practiced to a certain extent.

So far, experts have not found a clear answer to the question of the extent to which the IQ is related to mental illness. However, studies have shown that both particularly intelligent and less intelligent people are affected by these.

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Illnesses & ailments

It is not uncommon for particularly gifted people to suffer from their intelligence. The reasons for this are manifold, but are often related to a lack of understanding of their environment. Apart from the conveyed feeling of not being on the same wavelength as others, gifted people often lack someone with whom they can exchange ideas on certain topics on a similar level. Often they encounter ignorance or incomprehension.

In addition, there are various personality disorders that are said to be linked to high intelligence. These include a schizoid personality disorder that is associated with a lack of social interaction.

Various disorders and illnesses cause decreased intelligence. These include, for example, autism, Asperger's syndrome and various genetic defects. Genetically determined disabilities also often trigger a reduction in intelligence. This is the case with trisomy 21, for example.

Reductions in intelligence skills become noticeable through social, motor and language disorders. Around 15% of the population suffer from a learning disability, also known as borderline intelligence. Those affected have an average IQ of around 70 and have difficulty acquiring material in school.

Doctors differentiate between different levels of intellectual disability. An IQ of less than 20 is referred to as the most severe intellectual disability, which is reflected in language ability, continence and mobility.

Diseases that can cause intellectual impairment include rubella, meningitis, epilepsy, pregnancy trauma as well as premature birth and smoking by the mother during pregnancy. But metabolic diseases can also have a negative effect on intelligence. In addition, malnutrition can be to blame for decreased brain performance. The reason for this is often a lack of vitamin D levels.

There are different methods of support or help for people with severe intellectual disabilities. Integrative measures and therapy programs as well as assisted living offer them an opportunity to establish social contacts. Housing in homes is no longer common today.