AP Psychology Practice Test

In late adulthood, fluid intelligence tends to decrease. Fluid intelligence refers to the capacity to think logically and solve novel problems independent of acquired knowledge. It involves abilities such as abstract thinking, reasoning, and creative problem-solving. As individuals age, they may find that their processing speed declines and their cognitive flexibility diminishes, which can lead to challenges in adapting to new situations and in problem solving.

In contrast, crystallized intelligence, which encompasses the knowledge and skills accumulated over a lifetime through experience and learning, typically remains stable or may even improve. The ability to form intimate relationships may also persist or shift in nature rather than decrease outright, reflecting changes in social roles and support systems rather than a decline in capability. Menstruation, although it ends in women at a certain age (typically in middle adulthood), isn't relevant in all individuals as it pertains only to biological females, and the question addresses trends in intelligence rather than purely biological functions. Therefore, fluid intelligence is the aspect that exhibits a noticeable decrease during late adulthood.