Älykkyysosamäärätesti

Älykkyysosamäärätesti, commonly known as IQ test, is a type of standardized test designed to measure a person's cognitive abilities in relation to a peer group. The results are typically expressed as an IQ score. These tests are used in various contexts, including educational settings, psychological assessments, and research.

IQ tests often assess different domains of intelligence, such as verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. The specific tests and their scoring methods can vary. The score is usually normalized so that the average score for a given population is 100, with a standard deviation of 15. This means that most people fall within a certain range around 100.

The concept of IQ testing has been around for over a century, with early developments in the early 20th century aimed at identifying children who might need special educational support. Over time, the tests have evolved and have been applied to a broader range of individuals and purposes.

While IQ tests are widely used, their interpretation and the extent to which they measure "intelligence" are subjects of ongoing debate among psychologists and researchers. Critics sometimes point out that IQ tests may not fully capture the complexity of human intelligence, which can include creativity, emotional intelligence, and practical skills. Nevertheless, IQ scores have been shown to correlate with various life outcomes, such as academic achievement and job performance.