general factor

The general factor of intelligence, or g, is a concept in psychology theorized by Charles E. Spearman. He proposed that a single, underlying factor influences performance across various cognitive abilities. Spearman developed statistical methods to analyze correlations between different mental tests, concluding that a common factor, g, must be responsible for the consistent positive correlations observed. This theory suggests that individuals possess varying degrees of this general intelligence, which impacts their performance in different tasks. Psychology itself is the scientific study of mental states, processes, and behavior in humans and other animals. It encompasses both a profession of practitioners and a growing science of mind, brain, and social behavior.12