What happens to intelligence as people age?
A Crystallized intelligence tends to decline, whereas fluid intelligence remains steady and sometimes improves.
B Information processing tends to decline, whereas fluid intelligence remains steady and sometimes improves
C Fluid intelligence tends to decline, whereas crystallized intelligence remains steady and sometimes improves.
D Crystallized intelligence tends to decline, whereas information processing remains steady and sometimes improves
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is C. Fluid intelligence tends to decline, whereas crystallized intelligence remains steady and sometimes improves.
Fluid intelligence refers to the ability to reason and solve novel problems, independent of previous knowledge. It is associated with tasks like pattern recognition, abstract thinking, and problem-solving in new situations. As people age, fluid intelligence typically declines. This decline can be attributed to the natural slowing of cognitive processing speed, the decrease in memory capacity, and the weakening of the brain’s ability to adapt to new situations. Age-related changes in brain structure and function, such as reductions in the processing speed of the prefrontal cortex, also contribute to this decline.
On the other hand, crystallized intelligence refers to the accumulated knowledge and experience one gains over time. It includes vocabulary, general knowledge, and expertise in specific areas. Unlike fluid intelligence, crystallized intelligence tends to either remain stable or improve as people age. This is because crystallized intelligence is largely based on knowledge that is built up over a lifetime, and this accumulated knowledge does not typically degrade as quickly as the processes involved in fluid intelligence.
For example, a person may struggle with solving a new type of puzzle or learning a new language in later years (fluid intelligence), but they may continue to excel in using their knowledge of history or science to answer questions or make decisions (crystallized intelligence).
In summary, while fluid intelligence tends to decline with age due to changes in brain function and processing speed, crystallized intelligence remains stable or may even improve, reflecting the continued accumulation of knowledge and experience throughout life.