Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI — In an unexpected surge, 532 children have undergone IQ tests at the district hospital in the Uttar Pradesh city of Ghaziabad during the past 12 months, indicating a notable 40 perncent increase in the tests post-COVID pandemic.
This rise in testing is attributed to the growing academic pressure and uncertainties spawned by the pandemic, leaving several parents increasingly anxious about their children’s intellectual capabilities.
Parents of children aged 12 to 18 are flocking to the MMG Hospital’s Psychiatry Department in Ghaziabad, seeking answers about their children’s IQ levels, prompted by recommendations from schools.
Dr. Chanda Yadav, a clinical psychologist, reports a daily influx of inquiries from concerned parents eager for guidance on enhancing their children’s intellectual capabilities.
Breaking down the IQ status, the results reveal a spectrum of intelligence levels: low intelligence scores below 70, average intelligence at an IQ level of 80 to 89, general intelligence within the range of 90 to 110, and high intelligence with a score greater than 115.
Last year’s data paints a concerning picture, with 30 percent of the 532 tested children displaying below-normal intelligence. However, counselling proved beneficial, normalising the intelligence levels for 60 percent of these children. The upward trend in the number of children undergoing IQ tests, particularly post-COVID, adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing discourse.
Dr. Chanda Yadav emphasises the critical role of nurturing a child’s intellectual development. Offering practical advice, she urges parents to create a positive environment by refraining from using abusive language, adopting nature-oriented activities, and steering clear of scare tactics.
Parents are also encouraged to actively engage their children in table games, practice deep breathing, introduce musical instruments, and incorporate sports to foster both mental and physical development.
Senior psychologist Dr. Sanjeev Tyagi notes a heightened awareness regarding children’s IQ tests post-COVID, underlining the distinction between being smart and possessing a commendable IQ level.
As parents rush to secure insights into their children’s cognitive abilities, the escalating demand for IQ tests underscores a growing realisation of the pivotal role intellectual development plays in navigating the post-COVID academic landscape.
