Thai children’s IQ climbs, but still short of world standards

A survey conducted this year found that Prathom 1 students scored 98.2 on average – up significantly from 94 four years ago. 

By region, children in Bangkok demonstrated the highest average IQ at 103.4, while lowest averages were in the Northeast and South, possibly because of malnutrition during pregnancies. By background, they were from poor families and lived in remote areas. Children in 42 provinces had IQ scores higher than the international criteria. The average IQ of children living in towns was 101.5, which is significantly higher than the average IQ of children living in rural areas – 96.9.

 

It’s better in towns

While children living in towns boast a higher average IQ, the department’s survey revealed a cause for concern – there was little growth in the IQ scores of children living in towns.

“It’s probably because of the excessive use of smartphones or tablets among children in towns. Such usage can lower attention span, impair rational thinking, and adversely affect communication skills,” Rajanukul Institute director Dr Amporn Benjaponpitak said.

The institute was a part of the Mental Health team that tested not just the IQ but also the EQ – emotional quotient – of 23,644 Prathom 1 students across the country.

According to the latest findings, 5.8 per cent of Thai children have IQ scores lower than 70 – considered intellectually disabled. By international standards, the percentage of the intellectually disabled should not exceed 2 per cent. 

On a brighter note, Public Health Minister Piyasakol Sakolsatayadorn revealed that Thai children’s EQ performance was in line with his ministry’s target. So far, he reckoned, there was still room for improvement in the areas of commitment and problem-solving skills.

 

Health services important

The department’s director-general, Jedsada Chokdamrongsuk, said Thai children could boost their IQ and EQ if public health services were better and more focused on impoverished children or children living with teenage parents or living entirely on their own. 

“We should also do more for pre-school child development,” he said.

Jedsada said teachers should be given adequate training on how to identify children who have attention-deficit or hyperactivity disorder, autism or mood disorders. 

“About 15 per cent of Prathom 1 students have such conditions. The sooner they are identified, the earlier they will get special care,” he said.