Yale professor visits VCU to discuss intelligence

By Mary Beth Alford

Richmond, Va. – Yale University Psychology and Education Professor Robert J. Sternberg, Ph.D. will visit Virginia Commonwealth University to speak about higher mental functions, including intelligence, creativity and wisdom on May 21. The free public lecture and continuing education opportunity will be held from 10-11 a.m. at the Grace Street Theater, 934 W. Grace St.

During Sternberg’s visit to VCU, he will discuss his triarchic theory of successful intelligence. His theory suggests that intelligence is modifiable, not fixed and not bound by a single cultural milieu. Intelligence is composed of higher mental functions such as intellect, creativity and wisdom. Successful intelligence refers to the ability of people to succeed according to their own definitions and within their own social and cultural contexts.

Sternberg, who has been at Yale since 1975 doing innovative research in higher mental functions, leadership and love, also is director of the Yale Center for the Psychology of Abilities, Competencies and Expertise. He also is well-known for his triarchic theory of intelligence and triangular theory of love, according to which love has three components: intimacy, passion and commitment. Different combinations of the three yield different kinds of love.

Sternberg has earned numerous honors and awards both nationally and internationally for his contributions to the field of psychology. He has served as president of four different American Psychological Association divisions and is currently president-elect for APA. More information about Sternberg and his work visit www.yale.edu/rjsternberg.

This program is sponsored by the Center for Psychological Services and Development in VCU’s Department of Psychology. CPSD is approved by the American Psychological Association and the Virginia Board of Psychology to offer 1.5 continuing education credits for psychologists who attend the lecture.

Deadline to register is May 14. For more information and registration, call (804) 828-8069, or visit http://www.has.vcu.edu/psy/cpsd/index.htm.