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Cultural Influences on Patterns of Abilities in North America

Author(s):
Vernon, Philip E.; Jackson, Douglas N.; Messick, Samuel J.
Publication Year:
1986
Report Number:
RR-86-41
Source:
ETS Research Report
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
68
Subject/Key Words:
Cognitive Ability, Cultural Influences, Ethnic Groups, Intelligence

Abstract

The chapter examines cultural influences on patterns of abilities in North America or, more specifically, in the United States. After a brief review of the major models of intelligence and mental ability, the evidence for and against the "patterns-of-abilities hypotheses" is discussed, along with the major shortcomings of this interpretation as it pertains to between-group differences in ability profiles within the United States. Next examined are cultural influences on cognitive styles as potential organizers of ability patterns and, finally, cultural influences not on profiles but on average levels of ability performance.

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