How does fluid intelligence typically change over a person's lifespan?

Fluid intelligence refers to the capacity to think logically and solve problems in novel situations, independent of acquired knowledge. Research indicates that fluid intelligence often reaches its peak in early adulthood and generally starts to decline as individuals age. This decline may be attributed to various factors such as changes in brain structure and function, slowing cognitive processing speeds, and a decrease in the ability to adapt to new information and complex situations.

Therefore, the assertion that fluid intelligence generally declines with age aligns with psychological theories and empirical findings regarding cognitive development across the lifespan. In contrast, while other forms of intelligence, such as crystallized intelligence (knowledge gained from experience), can continue to improve or remain stable, fluid intelligence is specifically characterized by this tendency to decrease, especially in later adulthood.