The CHC model, or in full the Cattell-Horn-Carroll model, is an empirically supported theory about the structure of human cognitive abilities. Since the end of the 20th century, this model has formed the dominant theoretical framework for intelligence research and is recognized worldwide in the context of psychometric evaluation. Within Flanders, the CHC model is the only model that is consistently used for the development, interpretation, and underpinning of intelligence tests.
The model was built by integrating three major lines of research: the Gf-Gc theoretical model of Cattell and Horn, and Carroll’s three-stratum model. The synthesis resulted in a hierarchical model that organizes cognitive abilities into three levels (strata):
Stratum III: the highest level, containing the general intelligence factor (g), which provides an explanation for the strong intercorrelations between diverse cognitive abilities.
Stratum II: this level includes broadly defined abilities such as fluid reasoning (Gf), crystallized knowledge (Gc), working memory (Gwm), processing speed (Gs), visual processing (Gv), auditory processing (Ga), and reaction time (Gt).
Stratum I: the lowest level consists of fine-grained, specific skills that form the underlying components of the Stratum II constructs.
This structure makes it possible to map both global cognitive capacities and domain-specific strengths and weaknesses in a nuanced and standardized way.
Cebir integrates the CHC model as the scientific backbone in the development of all its cognitive tests. The test batteries are composed such that they measure the relevant cognitive domains in a targeted and valid manner, depending on the assessment context (selection, development, career guidance, …).
Examples of Cebir tests per CHC domain:
General reasoning ability (g): KIT, LINT, GIFT
Fluid reasoning (Gf): ABALET, CONCLUS
Crystallized intelligence (Gc): VERB
Working memory (Gwm): MEMO, CPAL STM, FLEX
Visual processing (Gv): SPACE 1/2/3, ORIENT, SAT
Processing speed (Gs): APS, DACTYLO, NUMCO
This taxonomy is directly based on the CHC model, which enables Cebir to fully align its test construction with internationally recognized psychometric standards. Furthermore, this structure allows cognitive profiles to be interpreted accurately and selection recommendations to be founded on differential cognitive strength analyses.
Cebir systematically tests its instruments against psychometric standards related to reliability, validity, norming, and objectivity. By using the CHC model as the underlying structure, content validity is enhanced and interpretations within and between tests can be framed within a coherent theoretical model.
The validity of the CHC domains in a predictive sense has been demonstrated at Cebir in multiple studies, which found, for example, that Gf, Gwm and Gs contribute significantly to predicting success in specific roles. Such findings are incorporated into the selection report that is provided to clients.
In contrast to global IQ scores, the CHC model offers a dynamic and nuanced view of intelligence, where cognitive capabilities are not regarded as one undivided whole but as a composition of multiple, separately measurable constructs. This approach increases the diagnostic value of cognitive assessments and allows targeted development actions.
For Cebir, the CHC model therefore constitutes the essential scientific basis for measuring intelligence in a fair, nuanced, and function-oriented way. Each test is designed such that it validates one or more CHC components and is structurally linked to the job requirements within a professional context.
Would you like to know more about the CHC structure or how Cebir integrates it into its selection and development tools? Contact our experts or request the research report on CHC and predictive validity.