The origins and ends of giftedness

Journal/Book: Amer Psychol. 2000; 55: 750 First St NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242, USA. Amer Psychological Assoc. 159-169.

Abstract: Five issues about giftedness are discussed. First, the origins of giftedness are explored The view that giftedness is entirely a product of training is critiqued. There is indirect evidence for atypical brain organization and innate talent in gifted children: Many gifted children and savants have enhanced right-hemisphere development, langunge-related difficulties, and autoimmune disorders. Second, the intense motivation of gifted children is discussed Third, it is argued that gifted children have social and emotional difficulties that set them apart. Fourth, evidence for the often uneven cognitive profiles of such children is presented Finally, the relationship between childhood giftedness and ''domain'' creativity in adulthood is discussed Few gifted children go on to become adult creators because the skills and personality factors required to be a creator are very different from those typical of even the most highly gifted children.

Note: Article Winner E, Boston Coll, Dept Psychol, McGuinn Hall, 140 Commonwealth Ave, Chestnut Hill,MA 02467 USA

Keyword(s): RIGHT-HEMISPHERE INVOLVEMENT; WISC-R PROFILES; CEREBRAL LATERALIZATION; INTELLECTUAL PRECOCITY; HANDEDNESS; PERFORMANCE; MUSICIANS; CHILDREN; ASYMMETRIES; ABILITIES

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