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The Impact of Environmental Factors on Intelligence
Mayra Perez
Florida National University/Department of Psychology
Clinical Psychological Assessment-DBX-DL01
Thomas Buzzerd
August 10, 2025
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The Impact of Environmental Factors on Intelligence
Intelligence can be difficult to measure because there are many different types of
intelligence, and the more traditional definitions include different factors. These factors include,
but are not limited to, problem-solving, reasoning, and adaptability. Scientists have not yet fully
agreed on the exact details of intelligence, whether it be acquired (nature vs. nurture), or how
exactly the brain functions to create it. Still, some parts of the puzzle are understood well enough
to form theories. The current working knowledge is that the many different types of intelligence
are created through both genetic and environmental factors working together. This paper will
explore the various environmental factors that influence intelligence, including nutrition,
education, socioeconomic status, and home environment, while also acknowledging the role of
genetics.
Genetics and Environment in Determining Intellectual Capacity
It is not easy to predict the influence of genes and environmental factors on a person’s
intellectual capacity, but what is clear is that genes do not dictate the exact measure of cognitive
potential a child may have. The environment can affect a child’s potential and enable it to
develop its full cognitive potential. Piaget outlined stages of cognitive development that are
essential for understanding how children's thought processes evolve over time. According to
OpenStax (2025), this development occurs rapidly at first and then continues at a steady pace. In
early childhood, cognitive abilities are flexible and shaped by various environmental influences.
During this period, a child's intelligence is still in the process of developing.
The environment significantly impacts a child's intelligence. In the preoperational stage
(ages 2 to 7), symbolic representation enhances intelligence, emphasized by OpenStax (2025).
However, children in this stage do not yet grasp object permanence. Difficulty in learning to
The Impact of Environmental Factors on Intelligence
Mayra Perez
Florida National University/Department of Psychology
Clinical Psychological Assessment-DBX-DL01
Thomas Buzzerd
August 10, 2025
, 2
The Impact of Environmental Factors on Intelligence
Intelligence can be difficult to measure because there are many different types of
intelligence, and the more traditional definitions include different factors. These factors include,
but are not limited to, problem-solving, reasoning, and adaptability. Scientists have not yet fully
agreed on the exact details of intelligence, whether it be acquired (nature vs. nurture), or how
exactly the brain functions to create it. Still, some parts of the puzzle are understood well enough
to form theories. The current working knowledge is that the many different types of intelligence
are created through both genetic and environmental factors working together. This paper will
explore the various environmental factors that influence intelligence, including nutrition,
education, socioeconomic status, and home environment, while also acknowledging the role of
genetics.
Genetics and Environment in Determining Intellectual Capacity
It is not easy to predict the influence of genes and environmental factors on a person’s
intellectual capacity, but what is clear is that genes do not dictate the exact measure of cognitive
potential a child may have. The environment can affect a child’s potential and enable it to
develop its full cognitive potential. Piaget outlined stages of cognitive development that are
essential for understanding how children's thought processes evolve over time. According to
OpenStax (2025), this development occurs rapidly at first and then continues at a steady pace. In
early childhood, cognitive abilities are flexible and shaped by various environmental influences.
During this period, a child's intelligence is still in the process of developing.
The environment significantly impacts a child's intelligence. In the preoperational stage
(ages 2 to 7), symbolic representation enhances intelligence, emphasized by OpenStax (2025).
However, children in this stage do not yet grasp object permanence. Difficulty in learning to
