Childhood characteristics of black college graduates reared in poverty

Studied records of IQ scores obtained in Grades 2, 6, and 8 by 22 black college graduates from poverty backgrounds. Ss' scores were compared to 3 control groups: school norms, siblings (n = 45), and classmates matched for sex, age, and 2nd grade IQ level. Ss' 2nd grade scores were below national averages and showed no differences from the 3 control groups. By 8th grade, however, Ss' scores were significantly higher than all 3 controls. School progress, birth order, family stability, and family composition are also examined.