This paper examines the assessment of intellectual functioning with a primary focus on two of the most widely used intelligence tests: the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales. The paper traces the historical roots of intelligence testing, explains the concept of IQ, and compares the structure, subtests, scoring methods, and practical applications of both instruments. It also addresses precautions for each test, reviews findings from relevant studies, and discusses the performance IQ components of the WAIS. The paper concludes by highlighting the distinct yet complementary roles these assessments play in psychological evaluation across different age groups and clinical contexts.
Psychological testing — also known as psychological assessment — is essentially the foundation upon which psychologists build a better understanding of a person and their behavior. It is a process of problem-solving for many professionals, designed to identify the core components of a person's psychological or mental health difficulties, personality, IQ, or other relevant elements. It is likewise a process that identifies not just a person's weaknesses, but also their strengths. Psychological tests measure a person's performance at a particular point in time, and psychologists describe an individual's "present functioning" in terms of their test data (Gonzalez-Gordon & Romero, 2012).
In order to fully investigate the history of intellectual assessment, this paper discusses key historical figures and numerous theories and approaches to testing intelligence. The purpose of intelligence testing is to better understand the development of cognitive aptitudes in humans relative to others in a given population. As a result, psychological tests are not able to predict future or ultimate potential. With that said, this paper focuses on the assessment of intellectual functioning, with particular attention to the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale and the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales.
The study of cognitive abilities and intelligence stretches back centuries and is characterized by both the best and worst of science — scholarly debates and bitter rivalries, research breakthroughs and academic deception, major shifts in assessment models, and the rise of a commercial industry that generates hundreds of millions of dollars in annual revenue. The assessment of intelligence began long ago, and as time passed, the development of intelligence testing advanced considerably, with some instruments becoming widely respected (Arrigo, 2009). Intelligence tests are measures designed to assess the level of cognitive capability of an individual compared to others in a population (Turk & Barber, 2004). Although different psychologists held different viewpoints on how to measure intelligence, each made a meaningful impact on intelligence testing in their era. Still contending with unresolved issues dating back to its origins, the study of intelligence has experienced as many setbacks in its development as it has seen steps forward.
A person's IQ — or intellectual quotient — is a theoretical construct measuring general intelligence. It is important to note that IQ tests do not directly measure raw intelligence; rather, they measure what researchers believe to be important components of intelligence.
There are two primary types of measures used to assess an individual's intellectual functioning: neuropsychological assessment and intelligence tests. Intelligence tests are the more commonly administered type and include the Stanford-Binet and Wechsler scales (Maeda & Takeuchi, 2012). Neuropsychological assessments — which can take up to two days to administer — are a far more comprehensive form of evaluation. They focus not only on testing for intelligence, but also on identifying all of an individual's cognitive strengths and deficits. Research indicates that neuropsychological assessment is most typically conducted with individuals who have experienced some form of brain damage, dysfunction, or organic brain condition, such as a brain hemorrhage (Gonzalez-Gordon, 2012).
In 1997, The Psychological Corporation introduced the newest version of their adult intelligence test, the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-III (WAIS-III) (Arrigo, 2009). This instrument was first introduced in 1939 and remains one of the most extensively used tests of adult intelligence. The most commonly administered IQ test today is the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale — Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV). It generally takes between one hour and one and a half hours to administer and is appropriate for individuals aged 16 and older. Children may be given an IQ test specifically designed for them, known as the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children — Fourth Edition (WISC-IV) (Emerson, Einfeld, & Stancliffe, 2010).
The WAIS-IV is divided into four major scales to arrive at what is called a "full-scale IQ." Each scale is further divided into a number of mandatory and optional (also called supplemental) subtests. The mandatory subtests are required to calculate an individual's full-scale IQ, while the supplemental subtests provide additional valuable information about a person's cognitive abilities.
The development of the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales launched the modern field of intelligence analysis and was one of the first examples of an adaptive test. The test originated in France before being refined in the United States. It began with French psychologist Alfred Binet, whom the French government tasked with developing a method for identifying intellectually challenged children for placement in special education programs (Suwalska, Lojko, Janik, Palys, & Rybakowski, 2008). As Binet noted, case studies might be more detailed and informative, but the time required to test large numbers of individuals would be prohibitive. In 1917, at Stanford University, psychologist Lewis Terman released a revised version of the examination, which became known as the Stanford-Binet test (Williams, 2010).
"Comparison, current applications, and test limitations"
"Norm scoring, study findings, and performance subtests"
It is clear that the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale and the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales are two assessments of great importance in psychology. Each test is unique in its own right and contributes different elements to the field of intellectual assessment. The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale is distinctive as an individually administered measure of intelligence designed specifically for adults aged 16 to 89. The Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale, while similar in some respects, is a standardized test that measures intelligence and cognitive abilities across a broader range — from children as young as age two through adulthood — making it a more versatile instrument for lifespan assessment.
You’re 30% through this paper. Sign up to read the remaining 2 sections.
Sign Up Now — Instant Access Already a member? Log inAlways verify citation format against your institution’s current style guide requirements.