Post 8 - Alex

Based on the information I read in the class text, I would not advocate parents testing their child’s IQ with a self administered IQ test such as Children’s IQ and Achievement Tests. First of all, I would have to question the validity of a test not administered by a trained professional. Secondly, I would have to question whether or not the results, regardless of who administered the test, are a true measure of intelligence. This is because I agree with the texts assessment that an IQ test is not a true measure of overall intelligence. IQ tests are deficient in assessing intelligence because they are culturally bias, do not measure multiple intelligences, and cannot predict potential intellectual changes over a lifespan. Furthermore, the results of an IQ test are likely to be misused. If the result of the parent facilitated exam is low, they are apt to manifest in the parents having low expectations of the child. The reverse is also true, in that unrealistically high expectations may be placed on a child with a high IQ score. Overall, I do believe there is a place for IQ testing as long as the test is only a small part of a larger, more comprehensive, aptitude assessment. Additionally, all of those assessments should be administered and interpreted by a trained professional, in a controlled environment.