Danish intelligence test may underestimate the abilities of bilingual young people

When psychologists in Denmark test intelligence, the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) is often the tool of choice. The test is used in everything from clinical and educational settings to forensic psychiatry and social services. But according to a new study published in the Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society from the University of Copenhagen, the test can paint a skewed picture of the abilities of bilingual individuals—even when they speak fluent Danish and have comp