An increase of intelligence measured by the WPPSI in China, 1984–2006

Normative data for 5–6 year olds on the Chinese Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI) are reported for samples tested in 1984 and 2006. There was a significant increase in Full Scale IQ of 4.53 points over the 22 year period, representing a gain of 2.06 IQ points per decade. There were also significant increases in Verbal IQ of 4.27 points and in Performance IQ of 4.08 points.

► We report normative IQ data for 5–6 years old Chinese children tested in 1984 and 2006.
► Wechsler Full Scale IQ increased significantly at 2.06 points per decade.
► Crystallized (Verbal IQ) increased more than fluid intelligence (Performance IQ).
► The 2006 sample generally outperformed the 1984 sample, but not for all subtests.
► The significant decline was seen in block-design and similarities subtests.