Gifted Traits: What You Might Not Expect

Imagine unraveling the mysteries of extraordinary minds, where the scope extends far beyond the conventional measures of intelligence; National Association for Gifted Children serves as a pivotal resource, offering insights into this multifaceted concept. Gifted individuals often demonstrate heightened emotional intensity, a trait frequently misunderstood as a challenge rather than a strength. Recognizing the diverse manifestations of giftedness, including asynchronous development, highlights the importance of tailored educational approaches, as championed by advocates like Leta Hollingworth, a pioneer in gifted education. Exploring divergent thinking, a hallmark of creative problem-solving, offers a glimpse into how intellectually advanced individuals approach challenges from unique angles, but what are some traits of those who are intellectually gifted that aren't immediately obvious when assessing a person's intelligence?

Unveiling the World of Giftedness: Beyond Simple Definitions

Giftedness: the word conjures images of child prodigies effortlessly acing exams and composing symphonies before their teens. But giftedness is so much more than just exceptional academic achievement or raw talent in a particular domain.

It's a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that requires a far more nuanced understanding. Think of it not as a single, easily definable trait, but as a vibrant spectrum of cognitive, creative, and emotional characteristics.

Moving Past Simplistic Views

For too long, giftedness has been boxed in by narrow definitions centered solely on high IQ scores or exceptional performance in traditional academic settings. This limited perspective fails to capture the diverse ways in which giftedness manifests itself.

It overlooks the unique strengths and challenges faced by gifted individuals. We need to move away from these simplistic, one-dimensional views and embrace a more holistic understanding of what it truly means to be gifted.

The Kaleidoscope of Giftedness: Embracing Diversity

Gifted individuals are not a homogenous group. In fact, the diversity within gifted populations is astounding. They come from all walks of life, possess a wide range of interests and abilities, and experience the world in profoundly different ways.

Some may excel in mathematics and science, while others may demonstrate exceptional artistic or musical talent. Still, others may possess a unique blend of cognitive and creative abilities that defy easy categorization.

Acknowledging this inherent diversity is crucial for creating supportive and inclusive environments that allow all gifted individuals to thrive.

Unique Strengths and Challenges

Giftedness is often accompanied by unique strengths, such as an exceptional capacity for learning, heightened curiosity, and a remarkable ability to think critically and creatively.

However, it also presents unique challenges. These can include:

• Asynchronous development (where intellectual, emotional, and social development progress at different rates)
• Heightened sensitivity
• Perfectionism
• Existential questioning

Understanding these challenges is crucial for providing appropriate support and guidance to gifted individuals as they navigate their personal and academic journeys.

Exploring the Landscape: A Glimpse Ahead

This exploration will introduce you to the pioneering voices who have dedicated their lives to understanding giftedness. Names like Leta Hollingworth, Annemarie Roeper, Linda Silverman, Françoys Gagné, Joseph Renzulli, Miraca Gross, and Stephanie Tolan.

We will delve into core concepts like twice-exceptionality, asynchronous development, overexcitabilities, and intellectual intensity. We will also guide you toward valuable resources and support organizations, and explore methods of assessment and identification.

Join us as we journey together to understand what giftedness means, how its understanding has progressed and how you can embrace the potential.

Pioneering Voices: Shaping Our Understanding of Giftedness

Giftedness, a multifaceted phenomenon, has been profoundly shaped by the insights and dedication of pioneering figures. Their work has not only broadened our understanding but also paved the way for more effective support and nurturing of gifted individuals. Let's take a closer look at some of these influential voices and their lasting impact.

Leta Hollingworth: Championing the Needs of Gifted Children

Leta Hollingworth (1886-1939) was a true trailblazer in the field of gifted education.

She challenged prevailing misconceptions about gifted children.

Hollingworth conducted rigorous research that demonstrated the unique social and emotional needs of this population.

Her work advocated for specialized educational programs designed to meet their intellectual capabilities and prevent underachievement.

She also emphasized the importance of providing appropriate counseling and support to address the potential for social isolation and emotional challenges.

Hollingworth’s research continues to influence gifted education programs today.

Annemarie Roeper: Delving into the Emotional Depths of Giftedness

Annemarie Roeper (1918-2012) brought a deeply humanistic perspective to the study of giftedness.

She emphasized the emotional intensity and existential awareness that often characterize gifted individuals.

Roeper highlighted the importance of self-understanding and self-acceptance.

She believed that gifted individuals grapple with complex questions of meaning and purpose.

Her work focused on fostering emotional intelligence and resilience.

Roeper championed the creation of supportive learning environments that encourage self-discovery and authentic expression.

Her work reminds us that nurturing the emotional well-being of gifted individuals is essential.

Linda Silverman: Illuminating Visual-Spatial Learners and Gifted Girls

Linda Silverman has made significant contributions to the understanding of visual-spatial learners.

She highlighted that they often think in images and patterns rather than sequentially.

Silverman advocated for instructional strategies that cater to their unique learning styles.

She also explored the challenges faced by gifted girls, who may experience societal pressures.

These pressures can lead to underachievement or a masking of their abilities.

Her research underscored the need for equitable educational opportunities and supportive mentorship.

Silverman’s work empowers gifted girls to embrace their talents and pursue their full potential.

Françoys Gagné: The Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent (DMGT)

Françoys Gagné’s Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent (DMGT) offers a framework for understanding how innate abilities can translate into talents.

DMGT distinguishes between giftedness as natural abilities and talent as systematically developed skills.

The model emphasizes the role of catalysts such as motivation, personality, and environmental factors.

These catalysts support the development of abilities into expertise.

Gagné's DMGT provides a nuanced perspective on the journey from potential to accomplishment.

Joseph Renzulli: The Three-Ring Conception of Giftedness

Joseph Renzulli proposed the Three-Ring Conception of Giftedness.

It emphasizes the interaction among above-average ability, creativity, and task commitment.

Renzulli argued that giftedness is not solely defined by high intelligence scores.

He believes that motivation and creative thinking are equally important.

His model has influenced the development of enrichment programs that foster these characteristics.

Miraca Gross: Understanding Twice-Exceptionality (2e)

Miraca Gross has been instrumental in raising awareness about Twice-Exceptionality (2e).

This refers to gifted individuals who also have learning disabilities, ADHD, or autism.

Gross highlighted the challenges that these students often face.

Their giftedness may mask their disabilities, and their disabilities may obscure their giftedness.

Her research emphasized the need for differentiated instruction, specialized support, and a strength-based approach.

This approach helps 2e students thrive academically and emotionally.

Stephanie Tolan: Amplifying the Voices of Gifted Adults

Stephanie Tolan brought a unique perspective to the field.

She is a gifted adult herself.

Tolan's work explores the lived experiences of gifted individuals throughout their lifespan.

She examined the social, emotional, and existential challenges they encounter.

She advocated for greater understanding and acceptance of giftedness in adulthood.

Tolan's writings offer valuable insights into the unique perspectives and needs of this population.

Core Concepts: Understanding the Inner World of the Gifted

The landscape of giftedness extends far beyond test scores and academic achievements. It encompasses a rich inner world, characterized by specific concepts and experiences that shape the lives of gifted individuals. These concepts are crucial to acknowledge for both the gifted themselves and the professionals or parents that support them. Understanding these concepts can unlock a deeper understanding of the joys, strengths, and challenges gifted individuals face.

Twice-Exceptionality (2e): A Paradox of Strengths and Struggles

Twice-exceptionality, or 2e, refers to gifted individuals who also have a learning disability, ADHD, autism, or other challenges. It's a paradox: exceptional potential coexisting with significant difficulties. This can manifest in remarkable creativity alongside struggles with writing, or exceptional mathematical ability combined with attention deficits.

2e individuals often face unique challenges in school, where their gifts might be overshadowed by their struggles. It’s important to recognize and nurture both their strengths and needs. Support may include individualized learning plans, accommodations, and therapies. The focus must be on capitalizing on their gifts while addressing their challenges.

Asynchronous Development: An Out-of-Sync Symphony

Gifted individuals often experience asynchronous development, meaning their intellectual, emotional, and physical growth progress at different rates. A child might possess the intellectual capacity of a teenager while retaining the emotional maturity of their age group. This can lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and misunderstanding.

Parents and educators need to recognize this asynchrony and provide support that addresses the individual's unique needs. Social-emotional learning opportunities are essential, as well as academic challenges appropriate for their intellectual abilities.

Existential Depression: Grappling with the Big Questions

Gifted individuals often exhibit a heightened capacity for abstract thought and reflection. This can lead to existential depression, a tendency to ponder profound questions about life, death, meaning, and purpose. They may grapple with feelings of alienation, disillusionment, and a sense of responsibility for the world's problems.

It is crucial to create a safe space for gifted individuals to explore these questions. Philosophy, literature, and the arts can be valuable outlets for processing complex emotions and ideas.

Perfectionism: A Double-Edged Sword

Perfectionism is a common trait among gifted individuals, driven by high standards and a desire to excel. While it can fuel achievement, it can also lead to anxiety, self-criticism, and fear of failure. Healthy perfectionism is about striving for excellence while accepting imperfections.

However, maladaptive perfectionism becomes detrimental, leading to procrastination, burnout, and a focus on avoiding mistakes rather than embracing learning. Encourage a growth mindset. Help them recognize that mistakes are opportunities for growth.

Sensitivity: Experiencing the World with Amplified Intensity

Heightened sensitivity is a hallmark of giftedness, encompassing emotional, sensory, and intellectual realms. Gifted individuals may experience emotions more intensely, be easily overwhelmed by sensory input, and possess a strong sense of empathy.

This heightened sensitivity can be a source of creativity, compassion, and deep connection. However, it can also lead to anxiety, overwhelm, and social challenges. Strategies for managing sensory input, practicing self-care, and developing emotional regulation skills are important.

Overexcitabilities (Dabrowski): The Five Dimensions of Intensity

Kazimierz Dabrowski's theory of overexcitabilities (OEs) describes five areas of heightened sensitivity and intensity: psychomotor, sensual, intellectual, imaginational, and emotional. These OEs represent different ways gifted individuals experience the world with amplified intensity.

Understanding these overexcitabilities can provide valuable insights into the unique experiences and needs of gifted individuals.

• Psychomotor OE: A need for constant activity, restlessness, and a love of movement.
• Sensual OE: Heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli, such as sounds, sights, smells, tastes, and textures.
• Intellectual OE: Intense curiosity, a love of learning, and a passion for exploring complex ideas.
• Imaginational OE: A vivid imagination, a rich inner world, and a love of fantasy and creative expression.
• Emotional OE: Intense emotions, strong empathy, and deep concern for others.

Understanding these traits can validate their experiences and help them develop coping strategies. The Dabrowski's Overexcitability Questionnaire can provide a useful framework for self-reflection and understanding.

Imposter Syndrome: Feeling Like a Fraud

Despite their accomplishments, gifted individuals often experience imposter syndrome, the persistent feeling that they are a fraud and their successes are due to luck rather than ability. They may fear being exposed as incompetent and doubt their own intelligence.

This can be especially prevalent in highly competitive environments or when gifted individuals compare themselves to others. Encourage them to focus on their strengths, celebrate their accomplishments, and recognize that everyone experiences self-doubt. Mentorship and support groups can also be valuable resources.

Intellectual Intensity: A Thirst for Knowledge

Intellectual intensity is a defining characteristic of giftedness. It is the passionate drive to learn, explore complex ideas, and delve deeply into areas of interest. Gifted individuals often exhibit a voracious appetite for knowledge, a love of intellectual challenge, and a desire to understand the world around them.

This intellectual intensity can be a powerful force for creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. It is important to provide gifted individuals with opportunities to pursue their intellectual passions, engage in challenging activities, and connect with like-minded peers.

Moral Sensitivity: A Strong Sense of Justice

Gifted individuals often exhibit moral sensitivity, a heightened awareness of ethical issues, a strong sense of justice, and a deep concern for the well-being of others. They may be passionate about social justice, environmental issues, and human rights.

It is important to provide them with opportunities to explore their values, engage in ethical discussions, and take action on issues they care about. Encourage them to use their gifts and talents to make a positive impact on the world.

Underachievement: When Potential Remains Untapped

Underachievement in gifted individuals refers to a discrepancy between their potential and their actual performance. It can manifest as low grades, lack of motivation, or disengagement from school.

Factors contributing to underachievement include lack of challenge, social-emotional difficulties, learning disabilities, and negative attitudes towards school. Addressing these underlying issues is crucial to helping gifted individuals reach their full potential.

Executive Functioning Deficits: Hidden Challenges

While giftedness is often associated with exceptional cognitive abilities, some gifted individuals, particularly those who are twice-exceptional (2e), may experience executive functioning deficits. These deficits can affect organization, planning, time management, working memory, and self-regulation.

These challenges can significantly impact academic performance and daily life. Support strategies include breaking down tasks into smaller steps, using visual aids, teaching organizational skills, and providing assistive technology.

Visual-Spatial Learning: A Different Way of Processing Information

Visual-spatial learners process information primarily through visual and spatial means. They excel at seeing the "big picture," understanding complex relationships, and solving problems using visual representations. They often struggle with rote memorization and sequential tasks.

Recognizing and accommodating this learning style can unlock their potential. Strategies include using diagrams, mind maps, graphic organizers, and hands-on activities.

Cultivating Growth: Mindset, Motivation, and Learning Styles

The journey of a gifted individual is not solely defined by innate ability, but by the intentional cultivation of growth, sustained motivation, and personalized learning strategies. These are the keys to unlocking their full potential. Let’s delve into some strategies that empower gifted learners to thrive.

Embracing the Growth Mindset

The Power of "Not Yet"

Carol Dweck’s work on mindset has revolutionized our understanding of learning and achievement. A growth mindset is the belief that intelligence and abilities are not fixed traits, but can be developed through dedication and hard work.

This is especially important for gifted learners who may have coasted through early academic experiences with relative ease. It teaches them that challenges are opportunities for growth, not threats to their self-perception.

A key phrase associated with the growth mindset is "not yet." This simple addition to one's vocabulary can transform a feeling of failure into a stepping stone toward success.

Instead of saying, "I can't do this," the growth mindset encourages "I can't do this yet." This fosters resilience and encourages persistence in the face of difficulty.

Shifting from Performance Goals to Learning Goals

Gifted individuals may sometimes be overly focused on performance goals, seeking validation through high grades or accolades. This can lead to anxiety and a fear of failure, hindering their willingness to take risks and explore new areas.

Instead, we must help them shift their focus to learning goals, where the emphasis is on acquiring new knowledge, developing skills, and embracing the learning process itself. This fosters intrinsic motivation and a genuine love of learning.

Providing Specific and Constructive Feedback

Feedback plays a crucial role in shaping a learner's mindset. Rather than simply praising intelligence or talent, feedback should be specific and focus on the process, effort, and strategies employed.

For example, instead of saying, "You're so smart," try "I noticed how you broke down the problem into smaller steps. That was a very effective strategy!" This reinforces the idea that success is a result of effort and effective strategies, rather than innate ability alone.

Fueling the Flame: Motivation and Task Commitment

Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation

Motivation can be broadly categorized into two types: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation arises from internal factors, such as interest, curiosity, and a sense of purpose. Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, comes from external rewards or pressures, such as grades, praise, or fear of punishment.

While extrinsic motivators can be effective in the short term, intrinsic motivation is the key to sustained engagement and a lifelong love of learning.

Finding the Spark: Identifying Interests and Passions

Gifted learners are often driven by a deep curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. Identifying and nurturing their individual interests and passions is crucial for fostering intrinsic motivation.

This may involve providing opportunities for exploration in various fields, connecting them with mentors who share their interests, or encouraging them to pursue independent projects.

Fostering a Sense of Autonomy and Choice

Autonomy and choice are essential components of intrinsic motivation. When learners feel a sense of control over their learning experiences, they are more likely to be engaged and invested.

This may involve allowing them to choose their own projects, set their own goals, or select the resources they want to use. Providing a sense of ownership over their learning journey empowers them to take initiative and pursue their passions.

Balancing Challenge and Support

Finding the right balance between challenge and support is crucial for maintaining motivation. Too much challenge can lead to frustration and discouragement, while too little challenge can result in boredom and apathy.

The ideal learning environment provides opportunities for learners to stretch their abilities while also providing the necessary support and guidance to ensure their success. This fosters a sense of competence and encourages them to embrace increasingly complex challenges.

Resources and Support: Building a Community of Understanding

Cultivating the unique potential of gifted individuals requires more than just recognition; it demands a supportive ecosystem. Thankfully, a vibrant network of organizations and resources stands ready to empower gifted individuals, their families, and educators.

Let's explore some key players in this crucial arena.

National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC): Your Gateway to Gifted Education

The National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) serves as a cornerstone of the gifted education landscape. NAGC offers a wealth of resources, from research-backed articles and publications to practical guides for parents and teachers.

It's the place to stay informed about best practices in gifted education.

NAGC also actively advocates for policies that support gifted learners at the local, state, and national levels. By joining NAGC, you become part of a powerful voice shaping the future of gifted education.

Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG): Nurturing the Whole Child

Giftedness often comes with heightened sensitivities and unique emotional challenges. That's where SENG (Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted) shines.

SENG focuses on the social and emotional well-being of gifted individuals.

SENG provides workshops, resources, and support groups designed to help gifted individuals thrive emotionally and socially. Their emphasis on understanding and addressing the emotional landscape of giftedness is invaluable.

The Davidson Institute for Talent Development: Championing Profoundly Gifted Students

For profoundly gifted students, the Davidson Institute for Talent Development offers unparalleled opportunities.

The Davidson Institute provides scholarships, educational programs, and a supportive community specifically tailored to the needs of exceptionally gifted individuals.

Their commitment to nurturing profound giftedness ensures that these students have the resources and encouragement to reach their extraordinary potential.

Specialized Educational Environments: Hunter College Elementary School

Hunter College Elementary School (HCES) in New York City stands as a beacon for gifted education. HCES provides a challenging and enriching academic environment designed to meet the specific needs of gifted learners.

The school's curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and in-depth exploration of subjects. HCES provides a model for effective gifted education.

Online Learning Opportunities: Stanford University Education Program for Gifted Youth (EPGY)

For gifted students seeking advanced learning opportunities, the Stanford University Education Program for Gifted Youth (EPGY) offers a wide range of online courses and programs.

EPGY provides access to challenging curriculum in mathematics, science, and humanities.

These online programs allow gifted students to accelerate their learning and explore their passions with guidance from expert instructors.

Summer Enrichment: Summer Institute for the Gifted (SIG)

Summer Institute for the Gifted (SIG) provides immersive summer programs for gifted students of all ages. SIG offers a unique blend of academic enrichment, creative exploration, and social interaction.

Students can delve into their interests, develop new skills, and connect with like-minded peers in a stimulating and supportive environment.

These summer programs offer a transformative experience for gifted students, fostering their intellectual curiosity and personal growth.

Building a Stronger Future

The organizations and resources highlighted here represent just a fraction of the support network available for gifted individuals.

By connecting with these resources, parents, educators, and gifted individuals themselves can build a stronger, more understanding community that celebrates and nurtures the potential of every gifted mind.

Assessment and Identification: Tools for Understanding

Unlocking a gifted individual's potential begins with identification – a crucial step that opens doors to appropriate support and enrichment. But navigating the world of gifted assessment can feel like traversing a complex maze. What tools are available? How reliable are they? And how do we ensure fair and equitable identification practices? Let's delve into the methods used to understand and identify giftedness, acknowledging both their power and their limitations.

The Role of Standardized Testing: IQ Tests

For decades, standardized intelligence quotient (IQ) tests have served as a primary tool in identifying gifted individuals. Tests like the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) and the Stanford-Binet assess cognitive abilities across various domains, providing a standardized score that can indicate intellectual giftedness.

These tests offer a relatively objective measure of cognitive abilities, allowing for comparison against a normed population. They can be particularly helpful in identifying individuals with exceptional general intellectual ability.

Limitations of IQ Tests: A Word of Caution

However, it's crucial to acknowledge the limitations of relying solely on IQ scores. Intelligence is multifaceted, and a single number cannot capture the full spectrum of a person's abilities, talents, and potential.

IQ tests may not adequately assess creativity, leadership skills, artistic talents, or emotional intelligence – all of which are vital aspects of giftedness.

Furthermore, cultural biases embedded within some standardized tests can lead to under-identification of gifted individuals from diverse backgrounds. It's essential to use IQ tests as just one piece of the puzzle, alongside other assessment methods.

Beyond IQ: Assessing Creativity with the TTCT

Recognizing the limitations of traditional IQ tests, educators and psychologists have sought alternative methods for identifying giftedness. The Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking (TTCT) offer a unique approach by focusing on creativity and divergent thinking.

The TTCT assesses various aspects of creativity, including fluency (the number of ideas generated), flexibility (the variety of ideas), originality (the uniqueness of ideas), and elaboration (the detail and complexity of ideas).

By measuring these creative abilities, the TTCT can identify individuals who may not score exceptionally high on IQ tests but possess remarkable creative potential.

Unveiling Divergent Thinkers

The TTCT provides valuable insights into an individual's ability to think outside the box, generate novel ideas, and approach problems from different angles. This is especially useful for identifying individuals whose giftedness lies in creative domains, such as art, music, writing, or invention.

It's important to remember that creativity is not solely the domain of the arts. Divergent thinking skills are essential in various fields, including science, engineering, and business. The TTCT helps broaden our understanding of giftedness to include those with exceptional creative problem-solving abilities.

Capturing Behavioral Characteristics: Renzulli's SRBCSS

While standardized tests provide quantitative data, they often fail to capture the behavioral characteristics associated with giftedness. Joseph Renzulli's Scales for Rating the Behavioral Characteristics of Superior Students (SRBCSS) address this gap by providing a systematic way to assess gifted behaviors based on teacher observations.

The SRBCSS consists of a series of rating scales that assess various characteristics, such as learning characteristics, motivational characteristics, creativity characteristics, and leadership characteristics.

Teachers who know the student well complete the scales based on their observations of the student's behavior in the classroom and other school settings.

A Holistic Approach to Identification

The SRBCSS provides a more holistic approach to identification by considering a broader range of characteristics beyond academic achievement. It allows educators to identify students who demonstrate exceptional motivation, creativity, leadership, or other gifted behaviors, even if their test scores are not exceptionally high.

The SRBCSS can be particularly useful in identifying underachieving gifted students who may not be performing to their full potential in traditional academic settings. By considering their behavioral characteristics, educators can gain a more accurate understanding of their abilities and provide appropriate support and encouragement.

In conclusion, identifying giftedness requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond relying solely on IQ scores. By incorporating creativity assessments like the TTCT and behavioral rating scales like the SRBCSS, we can gain a more comprehensive and equitable understanding of gifted individuals and ensure that they receive the support and opportunities they need to thrive.

So, are you seeing some of these unexpected patterns – heightened sensitivity, intense curiosity, or a quirky sense of humor – in yourself or someone you know? It might be time to consider that you're recognizing some of the lesser-known traits of those who are intellectually gifted. It's not all straight A's and rocket science; sometimes it's just a different way of experiencing the world.