Understanding Above and Below Average IQ: Beyond Mental Disability
It is a straightforward fact that half of the global population has an IQ below the average score of 100. Yet, the common misconception is that this automatically equates to mental disability.
Let's delve into the nuances of IQ testing, explore notable individuals with below-average IQ scores, and challenge the societal norms that often label low IQ scores as signs of mental disability.
IQ Testing: An Overview
The methodology of IQ testing is rooted in statistical distributions. The mean IQ score of people in the United States, defined using a US norming group, is set to 100 by design. However, when we consider the full population, including those with genetic mental disorders, a slight skew towards lower IQ scores becomes apparent. Approximately 53% of the total population has an IQ below 100, based on these considerations.
The IQ score is calculated using the formula: IQ 15 x z-score 100, where the z-score is relative to age peers. This means that the test administrator adjusts the raw score to account for age-related differences, resulting in an accurate IQ assessment.
Individual Stories: Beyond Average Scores
Recent personal accounts, such as the one shared by Dale Brook, provide a fascinating glimpse into the lived experience of individuals with IQs below the average. Brook's IQ was recorded as 75 in a mental hospital in 2019, and despite his lower IQ score, he continues to engage in online discussions on platforms like Quora. This story opens up the conversation about whether an IQ score reflects true mental capability and societal perception.
Notable Figures with Above Average Challenges
In our exploration, we also examine notable individuals who have achieved significant milestones despite scoring lower than average on IQ tests.
Kerry Packer: Kerry Packer, an Australian billionaire, inherited a substantial estate and grew his wealth to billions. His IQ score is estimated to be around 95, yet there is no indication that his wealth or success was hindered by this score. Thomas Edison: Renowned inventor Thomas Edison, famous for inventions such as the light bulb, scored in the low-80s on his IQ test. He was awarded a Nobel Prize in Physics, showcasing that intelligence, as measured by IQ tests, is not the sole determinant of success. American Physicist: An American physicist who scored in the low-80s on his IQ test in the mid-20th century also received a Nobel Prize in Physics. This further emphasizes that success is not defined by a single measure.Challenging Societal Norms
The stories of these individuals challenge the prevailing belief that an IQ score is an accurate predictor of mental capability and success. The question then arises: what truly defines a mentally disabled individual? The answer lies in social acceptance and the ability to contribute meaningfully to society.
Conformity is often considered healthy, but in reality, it is derived from social norms and expectations. The absence of awareness to this conformity is what sets the truly mentally disabled apart from the majority. This implies that the majority of people are often more disconnected from the true essence of mental health and well-being.
Conclusion
Understanding IQ and mental disability is a complex issue that requires a nuanced perspective. While IQ scores are a useful tool for certain assessments, they do not fully capture the breadth of mental capabilities and the potential for success. Stories of individuals like Kerry Packer, Thomas Edison, and the American physicist serve as reminders that success and mental well-being are multi-faceted concepts that extend beyond a single test score.