Which term best describes the misuse of intelligence testing historically?

• A. Testing Bias
• B. Standardization
• C. Reliability
• D. Norms

Answer: (A)

Testing bias arises when test results reflect factors other than the skill or trait being measured, leading to unfair or distorted conclusions. In intelligence testing historically, many items assumed knowledge, language, and experiences common to one culture or socioeconomic group. That meant scores systematically favored some groups while disadvantaging others, even when overall ability was similar. This kind of misuse helped justify discriminatory policies and practices, such as labeling or restricting opportunities for certain populations. The other terms describe how a test is built or interpreted—standardization ensures uniform administration, reliability means consistency across occasions, and norms provide benchmark comparisons—but they don’t capture the idea of unfair or prejudicial impact that “testing bias” describes.