Multiple
Intelligences - Applied Psychology
The concept of multiple intelligences has led the
evolution of terms describing different types of intelligence,
such as Emotional Literacy, from a number of sources in recent
years. Many psychologists have been uneasy about viewing intelligence
a simple unitary entity. Howard Gardner conceived the multiple
intelligences in the following way.
Linguistic / Verbal
Spatial-Motor
Logical-Mathematical
Musical
Bodily-Kinaesthetic
Interpersonal
Intrapersonal (Gardner, 1983)
Linguistic / Verbal intelligence refers to skill such as
reading, writing and understanding what people say.
Spatial-Motor intelligence indicates how well the person can
do things such as read a map or pack suitcases in car so they
all fit.
Logical-Mathematical intelligence concerns solving maths problems,
checking a supermarket bill and logical reasoning.
Musical intelligence refers to skills such as playing musical
instruments or appreciating the structure of a piece of music.
Bodily-Kinaesthetic intelligence includes imitating gestures,
dancing and running.
Interpersonal intelligence is about relating to other people
(eg understanding another person’s behaviour or feelings).
Intrapersonal intelligence is about understanding ourselves
and how we can change ourselves.
Interpersonal and intrapersonal intelligences are seen as
key aspects of Emotional Literacy. However there is little
evidence that there are actually seven different intelligences.
Indeed Gardner has since added spiritual intelligence to his
list while other workers have suggested different numbers
and definitions of intelligences eg Guilford and Hoepfner
1971 who defined 120 intelligences!
Nevertheless, many people do find the concept of multiple
intelligences very useful, particularly as a way of considering
and looking for the variety of different skills that we all
have. This also fits in well with the push in recent years
in education and psychotherapy of looking for and using the
strengths of individuals as a way of bringing about positive
change.
Stephen Bayliss - Chartered Psychologist
The Centre
18 Prospect Road
Hythe
Kent CT21 5NH
UK
Telephone: (01303)
253304
Email: mail@charteredpsychologist.co.uk
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