The average IQ of children living in towns was 101.5, which is significantly higher than the average IQ of children living in rural areas - 96.9.While children living in towns boast a higher average IQ, the department's survey revealed a cause for concern - there was little growth in the IQ scores of children living in towns. Children in 42 provinces had IQ scores higher than the international criteria. "It's probably because of the excessive use of smartphones or tablets among children in towns. "About 15 per cent of Prathom 1 students have such conditions. By international standards, the percentage of the intellectually disabled should not exceed 2 per cent.On a brighter note, Public Health Minister Piyasakol Sakolsatayadorn revealed that Thai children's EQ performance was in line with his ministry's target.

Source: The Nation Bangkok July 29, 2016 17:15 UTC