Which statement best describes the Flynn effect in cognitive psychology?

• A. It theorizes that average intelligence test scores have increased over generations.
• B. It theorizes that intelligence decreases as people age.
• C. It theorizes that intelligence is entirely determined by genetic factors.
• D. It theorizes that intelligence test scores remain stable across generations.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the Flynn effect refers to a phenomenon observed in cognitive psychology related to intelligence test scores over time.
2. Recall that the Flynn effect specifically describes changes in average intelligence test scores across different generations, not changes within an individual's lifespan.
3. Recognize that the Flynn effect does not claim intelligence is solely determined by genetics, but rather highlights environmental and societal influences on intelligence scores.
4. Compare the given statements to the definition of the Flynn effect, focusing on whether they describe an increase, decrease, stability, or genetic determination of intelligence scores.
5. Identify the statement that best matches the Flynn effect: the one that says average intelligence test scores have increased over generations.