[Intelligence Assessment in Refugees: Consequences of an IQ Test for an Adolescent from Egypt].

Abstract

Intelligence Assessment in Refugees: Consequences of an IQ Test for an Adolescent from Egypt Abstract: Assessing the general intelligence of refugees poses a great challenge. Common intelligence tests developed according to Western concepts are not culture-fair, even when presented nonverbally. Thus, refugees often perform below average on such tests, which does not correspond to the clinical impression. This case report shows that the uncritical interpretation of such test results can lead to significant consequences regarding schooling and housing. Intelligence tests should, therefore, only be carried out for refugees if indicated. When interpreting the results, one must consider the lack of cultural sensitivity and view the determined IQ values as minimum values. Instead of establishing a status diagnosis, one should conduct a process diagnosis that includes an intelligence test, case history, and coping skills. In the future, performance tests should be developed that, with technical support, can be presented in a culturally sensitive way and have norm samples for different ethnic groups and cultures.