Question

When Bayley tested a group of adults who had been child geniuses, she found that:

a) Their intelligence remained stable throughout adulthood.
b) Their intelligence significantly increased in adulthood.
c) Their intelligence declined in adulthood.
d) Their intelligence fluctuated unpredictably in adulthood.

Answer 1

Bayley found that intelligence in child geniuses remained stable throughout adulthood, aligning with the idea that crystallized intelligence maintains or improves with age, while fluid intelligence declines later in life.

Explanation:

Stability of Intelligence:

When Bayley tested a group of adults who had been child geniuses, she found that their intelligence remained stable throughout adulthood. This is consistent with research that suggests our crystallized intelligence (knowledge and skills) remains steady or can increase as we age, especially until our mid-30s to mid-50s. In contrast, fluid intelligence (problem solving and processing speed) tends to decline in late adulthood.

Mental and physical activities can help delay cognitive decline. Research suggests that engaging in mentally and physically stimulating activities can help delay the onset of cognitive decline. Adults who participate in these activities tend to experience less cognitive decline and have a reduced risk of mild cognitive impairment and dementia.