A synthetic theory to integrate and explain the causes of the Flynn effect: The Parental Executive Model

Abstract

The Flynn effect is one of the most interesting puzzles in psychology. Measured intelligence increased worldwide for a century, primarily in the fluid domain. Some increases may be flattening and/or reversing. Around 20 theories have been developed to explain the Flynn effect; most have empirical or conceptual weaknesses, though they also have strengths and face validity. The role of parents has been given only slight attention in past theorizing. We propose a new synthetic theory, the Parental Executive Model (the PEM) that integrates, organizes, and takes advantage of most previous theories. To structure our paper, we begin with a description of synthetic theories, and how to evaluate them (which has unique and difficult challenges). Following, we review the Flynn effect, and briefly summarize the new theory. Next, recent research is reviewed suggesting the value of re-conceptualizing the location of the Flynn effect to focus on families, and parents. Following, we describe the PEM, which states that parents – and teachers, authors, friends, etc. – use their agency to manage children's intellectual growth. The PEM posits that many (not all) parents subjectively optimize their children's intellectual outcomes, taking advantage of some subset of available resources – nutrition, education, technology, health care, etc. Cross-generational momentum occurs as parenting improves across generations. Prior research motivating the PEM is reviewed, and methods to evaluate the PEM are discussed. Finally, one recent empirical evaluation of the PEM is reviewed, that the cognitive home environment has been improving over time.