In a longitudinal study, researchers found that adults show relatively stable to increasing scores on intelligence tests until their mid-30s to mid-50s, demonstrating that cognitive abilities remain steady throughout early and middle adulthood (Bayley & Oden, 1955).

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In contrast to physical abilities, which peak in the mid-20s, cognitive functions generally remain stable throughout early and middle adulthood. Specifically, crystallized intelligence tends to hold steady or even improve. This stability is reflected in intelligence test scores, which show little to no decline for adults until they reach their mid-30s to mid-50s.

Cognitive Stability in Early and Middle Adulthood

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

A 55-year-old history professor and a 25-year-old graduate student are both participating in a university event. The event consists of two main challenges: a trivia contest covering a wide range of historical facts and a 100-meter sprint. Based on general developmental trends in adulthood, which of the following outcomes is most probable?

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