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Prior to the popularity of the Mindset concept, the predominant belief in the US, held by parents and teachers alike, was that Intelligence is rooted in our genes: we are born with our intelligence! Whether one followed the statistical approach to intelligence as a "general factor" or the qualitative approach that there are multiple kinds of intelligences (e.g., Gardner's "Frames of mind" idea), all reflected the understanding we are born that way. Modern Psychological Science, partnered with Behavioral Genetics, paints a much more nuanced picture though. While we do inherent tendencies, our lived experiences and our beliefs about what causes "change" and "growth" together all predict our successes. Most importantly, when experiences and beliefs change, successes change, in kind!
Exhibit A
Exhibit A
We surveyed 24 participants to hear their take on the claim that intelligence is fixed at birth. Under 30% of participants believed that this myth was true. We decided to reach out to collect a statement from a participant due to the surprising recognition of the myth.
"I know from personal experience that intelligence is a bigger issue than just genes."
-Participant
Believing the rhetoric that genes predetermine a person's intelligence is harmful. This harm is further shown when the history of the myth is taken into account. Pushing this myth adds limitations at an individual level as well as a systemic level. This occurs by discouraging people from furthering their education while also allowing institutions to avoid blame from the intelligence disparities seen today.
In reality, intelligence is a complex concept that many factors determine like environment and how we perceive our own intelligence, not just genetics.
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