In the context of AP Psychology, what does the Flynn effect refer to?

• A. The effect of reinforcement on learning new behaviors
• B. The decline in memory performance as people age
• C. The tendency for people to conform to group norms even when they are incorrect
• D. The observed rise in average intelligence test scores over generations

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that the Flynn effect is a concept in psychology related to intelligence testing and generational changes.
2. Step 2: Recognize that it refers to the observed phenomenon where average intelligence test scores have increased over successive generations.
3. Step 3: Note that this effect is named after James R. Flynn, who extensively studied and documented this rise in IQ scores.
4. Step 4: Differentiate the Flynn effect from other psychological concepts such as reinforcement, memory decline, or conformity, which are unrelated to generational IQ changes.
5. Step 5: Summarize that the Flynn effect highlights how environmental factors, education, and societal changes may contribute to increasing intelligence test performance over time.