Multidimensional relations between intellectual abilities and demographic variables.

The standardization sample of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R) was the basis for an analysis of the WAIS-R subscales in relation to demographic variables. Canonical correlation with orthogonal rotation of composite structural components was performed in order to determine interrelations between both sets of variables, thereby providing an integrated approach to previous research concerning subtest patterns of ability. A 1st rotated factor indicated a general factor with high loadings on all 11 subscales, education, race, and occupation. This factor represented crystallized intelligence or ability (Cattell, 1943). A 2nd rotated factor indicated a performance factor with loadings on the 5 performance subscales, age, and single marital status. This factor represented fluid intelligence or ability. A 3rd rotated factor revealed a sex-specific or manual dexterity factor for males on the Block Design subtest and being in a skilled worker occupation. The relatively strong relations support the original purposes of the intelligence movement in identifying people likely to be successful in academic pursuits, but the implications for equality of educational opportunity may have been ignored or masked by previous univariate methods. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)