Generational changes of intelligence test scores in rural areas

Abstract

This study was to examine changes in intelligence among elementary school children across different generations. The results of group intelligence tests conducted between 1956 and 1985 at 38 elementary schools and 10 junior high schools located in 7 separate regions of Aomori Prefecture were analyzed. Data were compiled from the schools' Student Records which are considered as public records. The main results were as follows : 1) In the 5 concerned regions made primarily of agricultural and fishing communities, children's intelligence statistics up to 1960 were proved lower than average. However, between 1961 and 1970, the above mentioned figures rose dramatically and reached the average standard on the intelligence test. 2) In one urban region, children's intelligence levels were consistently higher than norm on the intelligence test regardless of the age group. No changes were observed between different the generations. 3) Children living in regions distant from urban areas showed a tendency to have lower intelligence scores than children living in regions closer to urban areas. Recently, however, these regional variations were found to be less pronounced.