Lewis Terman

Lewis Terman (1877-1956) was an American psychologist and educator, known for his significant contributions to the field of intelligence testing and research. He developed the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale and conducted the famous Genetic Studies of Genius.

Early Life and Education

Lewis Terman was born on January 15, 1877, in Johnson County, Indiana. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Central Normal College in 1894. Terman then pursued his interest in psychology and received his Ph.D. from Clark University in 1905.

Academic Career

After completing his doctorate, Terman joined the faculty at Stanford University in 1910, where he remained for the rest of his career. He became a renowned professor of psychology and was appointed as the head of the Psychology Department at Stanford.

Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale

Terman is best known for developing the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale, which he adapted from the original Binet-Simon Scale. This revised version became widely used as a comprehensive individual intelligence test, providing a standardized method to measure intellectual abilities.

Genetic Studies of Genius

One of Terman’s most prominent works was the Genetic Studies of Genius project. He conducted a longitudinal study over several decades with the aim of identifying and nurturing intellectually gifted children. The study followed individuals who scored exceptionally high on the Stanford-Binet test, providing valuable insights into the characteristics and development of gifted individuals.

Legacy

Lewis Terman made significant contributions to the field of psychology and intelligence testing. His work on the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale and the Genetic Studies of Genius project revolutionized the understanding of intelligence and the identification of gifted individuals. Terman’s research continues to influence psychological assessments and educational programs to this day.