Psychology: A Self-Teaching Guide

150 PSYCHOLOGY

nurture controversy is something of a false issue. The correct formula for under-

standing intelligence is this one:

Heredity ¥Environment = Intelligence

(The multiplication sign is used to symbolize an interaction.)

The answer to the heredity-environment debate should not be given in

either-or terms. The answer should be given in both-andterms. Both heredity and

environment, interacting, play important roles in determining intelligence.

(a) An occurs when two (or more) variables affect each other in a complex

way.

(b) What is the correct formula for understanding intelligence?

Answers: (a) interaction; (b) Heredity ×Environment=Intelligence.

SELF-TEST

1. One of the following is nota primary characteristic of intelligence:
   a. The ability to think clearly
   b. Eccentric thinking
   c. Convergent thinking
   d. Functioning effectively in the environment


2. In behavioral science, intelligence has the status of
   a. a hypothetical construct
   b. a psychological atom
   c. a transcendental force
   d. an interim operant


3. What method was employed by Binet and Simon to measure intelligence?
   a. The biometric method
   b. The perceptual-motor method
   c. The performance method
   d. The physiological method


4. A research project that measures behavior over a span of time is called a
   a. discontinuity study
   b. gradient study
   c. longitudinal study
   d. continuity study