CHC Theory as a Taxonomy of Cognitive Abilities

By Catherine Christo, Ph.D., California State University, Sacramento

Introduction

The Cattel-Horn-Carrol (CHC) Theory of cognitive abilities is becoming a commonly used taxonomy for discussions of cognitive abilities. The emergence of this theory as a leading framework for viewing cognitive abilities is evidenced by the inclusion of CHC Theory in the factor structure and methods of interpretation in recently published intelligence tests (WISC-IV, KABC, SB-V). The basic structure of CHC Theory posits a three-stratum model of cognitive functioning that includes narrow abilities subsumed under broad abilities which are themselves subsumed under a general factor of intelligence, or g. This general factor, or g, comprises the highest stratum in CHC Theory.

Roots of CHC Theory

CHC Theory can be traced back to the work of Thurstone and the Theory of Primary Mental Abilities (Carroll, 1997). Thurstone originally put forth 7-9 primary mental abilities. The scope of this theory was eventually expanded to include more than 60 primary abilities. Horn and Cattell brought forth the concepts of Gf (fluid intelligence) and Gc (crystallized intelligence) through a factor analysis of the

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