Which of the eight types of intelligence are you better developed? Taking apart Gardner’s theory

Howard Gardner, a psychologist and professor of neuroscience at Harvard University, formulated the theory of multiple intelligence in 1983. At that time his book “The Structure of the Mind” was published. The theory challenged the usual ideas about intelligence. What is its essence?

The essence of the theory

Previously, intelligence was considered as a single cognitive ability, easily measured by short-answer tests aimed at assessing a person’s mathematical ability, language skills and spatial visualization. That is, the only measure was IQ.

According to Gardner, this model was limited because it defined too narrow a range of abilities and could not account for “anomalies.” For example, a musical genius may have difficulty with spelling. A linguist might have a hard time performing simple math calculations. The professor called for a more open and qualitative approach.

Intelligence is not just about problem-solving or logical and linguistic skills. It is also abilities such as conflict regulation, interpersonal interaction, artistic creativity, and physical coordination. The aim of the theory is to provide an alternative approach to understanding and measuring human intelligence and potential.

In his work, Gardner described eight types of intellectual competencies. They reflect different ways of interacting with the world. Each of them can be developed and manifested to different degrees.

Types of intelligence

1- Linguistic-verbal.

Enables people to communicate effectively through language. A person has a pronounced tendency to compose stories, the ability to write in rhyme, and the ability to learn foreign languages.

2. Musical

Allows one to recognize, create, and communicate sounds. Includes the ability to pick up or play a particular rhythm with an instrument or voice.

3. Logical-Mathematical

Ability to solve mathematical problems, analyze logical sequences, and develop abstract models. This type underlies deductive reasoning and is characteristic of scientists, mathematicians, and philosophers.

4. Visual-spatial

Provides perception of visual, spatial information and its memorization. It is characteristic of sculptors, artists, architects, engineers, sailors and pilots.

5. Kinesthetic

The use of one’s body to accomplish goals and tasks. It is mainly concerned with coordination and is characteristic of athletes, dancers or actors.

6. Interpersonal

It is also sometimes referred to as “social intelligence”. It allows you to interact effectively with other people: understand them, empathize with their feelings, read emotions. It is usually possessed by psychologists.

7. Intrapersonal

The ability to understand and manage one’s emotions, motivation, goals. This type can also identify with personalities other than their own.

8. Natural-Natural

Allows one to recognize certain natural objects, classify them in a precise order, and grasp the relationships between them. It is characteristic of those who live and work in close contact with nature.

Effectiveness of the theory

Clinical psychologist (IP&CP), counseling psychologist

“Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligence has not been unanimously recognized in the scientific world and is still highly controversial. Among the most frequent criticisms of it is its overly subjective definition of different intelligences.”

Nevertheless, the idea of the uniqueness and unique combination of different abilities of each individual can be effective in reality. It allows one to choose the approach to learning and the format of activities.

There are people who are trying to find their way in life, and they do not find it easy. It is because they do not take into account their own individual characteristics. For example, a person with linguistic-verbal intelligence is closer to work as a journalist, and interpersonal intelligence – as a lawyer.

Also Gardner’s theory helps teachers to find an individual approach to each child. For example, the teacher moves away from traditional rote learning, visualizes the material, and uses hearing.

In addition, based on this theory, you can develop other types of intelligence. For example, sign up as a volunteer in an organization to pump social intelligence or play musical games.

This is first and foremost a destigmatizing theory. There is humanistic value in it. Gardner himself also wrote that his work challenges the social injustice caused by the existence of IQ as the sole criterion for judging intelligence.