Factor analysis has been used to assess whether
A) intelligence is determined primarily by heredity or by experience.
B) intelligence is a single trait or a collection of distinct abilities.
C) intelligence scores remain stable over the life span.
D) differences in intellectual ability exist between groups of individuals.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Factor analysis is used to identify underlying factors or dimensions that may be contributing to a set of observed variables. In the case of intelligence, factor analysis has been used to identify whether intelligence is a single trait or a collection of distinct abilities. This has been important for understanding how different aspects of intelligence may be related to each other and to other outcomes such as academic achievement or job performance. Factor analysis has not specifically been used to assess whether intelligence is determined by heredity or experience, whether intelligence scores remain stable over the life span, or whether differences in intellectual ability exist between groups of individuals.

Factor Analysis Has Been Used to Assess Whether