What has the Abecedarian Intervention program demonstrated regarding intelligence?

The Abecedarian Intervention program has shown that the environment plays a significant role in shaping intelligence. This program focused on providing comprehensive early childhood education and support to children from low-income families. It demonstrated that a stimulating environment, enriched with educational opportunities and social support, can positively influence cognitive development and overall intelligence. Specifically, children who participated in the intervention exhibited higher IQ scores and improved social-emotional skills compared to those who did not receive similar support.

This evidence supports the idea that intelligence is not fixed or determined solely by genetic factors; rather, it can be enhanced through targeted interventions in a nurturing and resourceful environment. The findings suggest that investing in children's early experiences can lead to substantial benefits in their intellectual and emotional growth, underscoring the importance of environmental factors in cognitive development.