Which word was used by Thurstone for 'intelligence' ?

Question

Accepted Answer

Thurstone's concept of intelligence is best captured by the term "Primary Mental Abilities," which is why Option 1 is the correct answer. Thurstone, a prominent psychologist, proposed that intelligence is not a single, unified construct but rather a set of independent factors. He identified several primary mental abilities that he believed constituted intelligence. These abilities include verbal comprehension, word fluency, number facility, spatial visualization, associative memory, perceptual speed, and reasoning. Thurstone's theory was a departure from the idea of a singular general intelligence factor, emphasizing instead the multifaceted nature of cognitive abilities.

Now, let's examine why the other options are incorrect:

2. Universal Mental Abilities: This term does not accurately reflect Thurstone's theory. While "universal" might suggest a broad application, Thurstone's focus was on specific, distinct abilities rather than a universal construct. His work was about identifying and measuring these separate abilities, not proposing a universal intelligence.

3. Neutral Mental Abilities: This option is not aligned with Thurstone's theory. The term "neutral" does not convey the specificity and distinctiveness of the abilities Thurstone identified. His research was centered on defining and understanding specific cognitive skills, not on a neutral or generalized concept.

4. Higher Mental Abilities: While this term might suggest advanced cognitive functions, it does not capture the essence of Thurstone's theory. Thurstone's primary mental abilities are not necessarily "higher" in a hierarchical sense but are distinct components that together form a comprehensive view of intelligence. His focus was on the diversity of cognitive abilities rather than a hierarchy.

In summary, Option 1, "Primary Mental Abilities," is the correct answer because it directly aligns with Thurstone's theory of intelligence, which emphasizes the existence of multiple, distinct cognitive abilities that together constitute human intelligence.