Final answer:
Spearman's g factor refers to a general intelligence factor that underlies various cognitive abilities and offers a single measure that represents intelligence across different tasks and domains. Thus correct answer is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
Spearman's g factor refers to c) A general intelligence factor. British psychologist Charles Spearman theorized that intelligence consists of a single, general factor, known as g, which represents the commonalities among various intellectual abilities rather than the unique aspects of each. This concept was rooted in the idea that intelligence could be measured and compared among individuals.
Spearman's work contrasted with other theories, such as those by Cattell who later divided general intelligence into crystallized intelligence and fluid intelligence, or Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences, which included subsets like emotional intelligence.
In Spearman's theory, the g factor is what underpins the ability to reason, solve problems, think abstractly, comprehend complex ideas, learn quickly, and learn from experience. It's a general cognitive ability that influences performance on various mental tasks.