The Relationship between Cognitive Style and Intelligence

Abstract

The relationship between intelligence, as measured by the short form of the British Abilities Scales, and the Wholist‐Analytic and Verbal‐Imagery style dimensions, as assessed by the Cognitive Styles Analysis, was investigated with 119 12‐13‐year‐old middle school pupils (63 males and 56 females). Near zero correlations between intelligence and the styles were found. A Test of Embedded Shapes was also given and this correlated significantly with intelligence, but not with style. The effect of intelligence and style on performance on a range of school subjects was considered, and this showed significant main effects of intelligence and both of the styles. The results were discussed in terms of the nature of intelligence and cognitive styles.