MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: IQ testing

Skip navigation


Medical Encyclopedia
Other encyclopedia topics:	A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9

IQ testing

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative Names	Definition Information

Illustrations

Normal brain anatomy

Alternative Names Return to top

Intelligence testing

Definition Return to top

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 Return to top

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.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2008, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.