Advantages of taking I.Q. tests for the high range
© Paul Cooijmans
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Reasons to take high-range I.Q. tests
The following are good and valid reasons why people take high-range tests:
- For enjoyment, similar to that derived from completing crosswords or other puzzles;
- To contribute to the study of high intelligence, creativity, and genius, which is the most important line of study possible (one contributes by taking the tests and providing the requested information);
- To gain insight into one's level and profile in mental ability (and disability);
- To get to know other highly intelligent persons through societies that accept certain scores for admission;
- To gain access to publication fora of societies that accept certain scores for admission;
- Out of interest in high-range testing as a form of psychometry;
- As a cure for megalomania.
It is hoped that more advantages will be offered in the future as the world of high I.Q. societies matures, and learns to develop more effective programmes for self-improvement in the realms of study, work, therapy and contact. Admittedly, I.Q. societies are still in their infancy compared to much older institutions like universities, churches, and professional organizations.
Not reasons to take high-range I.Q. tests
The following are bad reasons to take tests:
- To get a report with an I.Q. to impress others;
- To get an I.Q. to put on one's resume for job applications (few employers appreciate high intelligence; most will panic and never hire someone smarter than themselves, and those who do select for intelligence prefer to have their own testing done).
Also, with high-range tests one normally does not get a consultation afterwards about the meaning of one's scores. There will be no qualified professional to comfort one and trivialize the score ("Come on, intelligence isn't everything...", "I.Q. is only a number..."). One is on one's own with the realization one is not as intelligent as one had thought or hoped.