Just how relevant is an IQ test in one's life?

Question

I have done an IQ test before and didn't do too badly I must say, but what relevance does have in how we live our lives?

Answer 1

The test itself may not have relevance, but the correlation between the score and some sought after outcomes is highly significant. IQ, despite its (serious) faults, is the most highly replicated and convergent validity checked measure of any psychological construct period. As a result, IQ and something like your viability in completing med school, surviving the political dangers of becoming a CEO or congress person is higher. Yes, IQ alone does not predict success or failure, but the ability to score high on such a test does offer a person a helpful advantage. There are many folks who somehow tie human-ness to intelligence, so live and die by IQ's, mostly theirs. I've always felt MENSA helps perpetuate this disgusting belief. Yes too, there are aspects of intelligence that are distinct from what the IQ measures, and of which if we lack present a serious barrier. IQ, is after all only a measure, it is not intelligence itself.
Given that you scored well, it means that you have the mental horsepower to accomplish some things that present themselves in a more challenging manner to others. So you have an advantage. Use it wisely and with understanding to folks who may have less of an advantage. Please don't become a MENSA snoot, there are better things to do with your time.

Good luck and Peace.

Answer 2

The IQ test has very little relevance to everyday life. It is a measure (some would question the validity or accuracy) of knowledge and reasoning ability. The score itself is rarely used by anyone to determine whether you are capable of holding a job or position (though there may be some sort of standardized test to verify that you qualify for the position).

Taking the test and receiving your score is just a blip on the radar of your life. What is more important is how you express and use your abilities in everyday life and on the job.

Answer 3

It really has no relevance. There are many different types of intelligences. Most IQ tests out there don't cover the Multiple Intelligences. So they don't register true intelligence. There are tests that tell you what kind of intelligence you are. That is why Multiple Intelligence is being covered in education programs. Because a teacher needs to understand these to provide lessons that will fit the needs of students. I have known people who do extrodanarily well on those IQ tests and have done nothing with their life but sit on their *** and can't socialize and succed in life. I've had other friends whom can't pass one of those tests, but are very intelligent and can communicate well enough to succeed in life.