Which psychologist proposed the theory of multiple intelligences with nine distinct types?

• A. Sternberg
• B. Gardner
• C. Spearman
• D. Binet

Answer: (B)

Intelligence as multiple distinct abilities is what this item is testing. Howard Gardner proposed that intelligence isn’t a single general ability but a set of independent modalities. He identifies several areas, including linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, naturalistic, and, in some formulations, existential. This nine-ability framework stands in contrast to theories that emphasize a single general factor of intelligence (g) or only a few dimensions.

The reason this is the best answer is that Gardner is the psychologist who introduced the theory of multiple intelligences and specified multiple distinct modalities, culminating in a nine-type model. In practice, this view helps counselors recognize and support a range of strengths beyond traditional verbal or numerical skills, tailoring strategies to a client’s strongest areas. For comparison, Sternberg’s triarchic theory highlights analytic, creative, and practical intelligences; Spearman emphasized a general intelligence factor with specific abilities; Binet contributed to early IQ testing, not a multi-factor intelligence framework.