Do memory games improve IQ?

Do Memory Games Improve IQ?

In the digital age, cognitive training apps and brain teasers have become increasingly popular. One of the most appealing promises these apps make is to improve intelligence quotient (IQ) scores through memory games and other brain exercises. But does playing memory games like Lumosity or using cognitive training apps like Peak truly increase your IQ? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question.

No Concrete Evidence for Memory Game-Related IQ Increases

A thorough review of various scientific studies has revealed that there is little to no conclusive evidence that playing memory games improves IQ scores. While there have been studies suggesting a link between memory games and cognitive enhancements, the sample sizes are often too small to make significant claims, and many studies fail to control for external factors that could influence the results. The largest study to date on Lumosity’s cognitive training program found only a very small and temporary gain in cognitive skills, but no evidence of lasting IQ improvement. (Table 1: Lumosity’s cognitive training study results)

Additionally, research conducted by Dr. Tanya Evangeline of the University of California, San Diego, revealed that, despite a boost in memory scores, there was no meaningful impact on intelligence as measured by the IQ tests used. This supports the conclusion that memory games have little effect on IQ.

Genetics and Heritability Play a Strong Role

Research suggests that IQ scores have a strong genetic component, with heritability estimates ranging from 40% to 70% for the majority of cognitive skills, including intelligence. This implies that innate factors such as genetics have a more significant influence on IQ than cognitive training exercises. While genetic influence can account for some variations, this still leaves a smaller room for cognitive training to improve IQ. Table 2: Estimates of genetic heritability for different cognitive skills

What is Giftedness and Why Shouldn’t You Concern Yourself With IQ Scores?

When determining giftedness, cognitive skills, particularly verbal comprehension and perceptual reasoning, are evaluated through various assessment tools. A higher score in one or both areas often denotes a greater level of cognitive ability, potentially resulting in the classification of someone as "gifted." Types of Giftedness:

• Domain-Specific Giftedness: An exceptional ability in a particular field or skill (e.g., sports, art).
• Exceptional Intellectual Ability: High achievement on intelligence tests.

Consider, too, the controversy surrounding the construct of intelligence. While IQ scores have a useful diagnostic and predictive power in the scientific community, some have questioned their cultural bias, questionable construction, and the oversimplification they might offer in describing individual cognition.

Concluding Thoughts and Takeaways

While it seems clear that memory games don’t reliably improve IQ scores, these apps and brain training tools can still provide engaging entertainment and enhance certain cognitive abilities such as attention, processing speed, or memory recall.

Rather than relying on cognitive training, one should focus on factors with greater impact on intelligence:
• Education and Environmental Support: Nurture mental and intellectual development through early education and environment stimulation.
• Personal Experience and Skill-Building: Explore your interests, practice novel tasks, and build a wealth of domain-specific knowledge.

For your specific concerns regarding 200 IQ and your 11-year-old:
Note: Scores below 160-180 are considered above-average. To truly determine a high-level intellectual capacity, comprehensive and multifaceted assessments, in combination with cognitive testing, would be essential. Seek a qualified psychologist’s opinion on this matter.

Memory games are a useful leisure activity for developing healthy habits and keeping your brain sharp; however, their significance should be balanced with broader efforts for cultivating intellectual abilities, both academically and extracurricularly.