Using a systematic search strategy in which intellectual giftedness was operationalized in terms of IQ score, the authors examined evidence from studies reporting on associations between this aspect of giftedness and psychopathology. A total of 18 studies met the inclusion criteria: compared gifted (IQ = 125) and nongifted (IQ = 90-110) peers or…

Mentoring individuals who are gifted, talented, and creative, but somewhat emotionally sensitive is a challenging and provocative arena. Several reasons individuals experience heightened sensitivity include: lack of nurturing, abuse, alcoholism in the family, low self-esteem, unrealistic parental expectations, and parental pressure to achieve.…

This article proposes guided viewing of film as a strategy through which teachers and counselors may assist young gifted students in gaining helpful insights to deal with problems. It presents a theoretical foundation for this approach, a variety of strategies for implementation, and recommended films appropriate for gifted students. (Contains…

Research on depression among gifted adolescent females is reviewed. A psychotherapeutic model drawing on established feminist therapy strategies is presented for counselors working with gifted adolescent females. The model emphasizes recognizing harmful effects of patriarchal society, supporting females in self-exploration, and pursuing nonsexist…

Discusses the types of problems faced by talented adolescents, including family and peer relations, biological and developmental issues, negative and harmful school culture, drug and alcohol abuse, inappropriate academic curriculum, underachievement, perfectionism, and stress. Strategies teachers can use to meet the socio-emotional needs of gifted…

Discusses why gifted girls are at risk for emotional instability due to the mixed social messages they receive, the lack of mental-health services for gifted girls, and their need for specialized counseling. Urges mental-health professionals to consult with professionals in gifted education to provide appropriate services. (CR)

This editorial reviews the literature on the emotional states of gifted children, pointing out design flaws and the problem of using averages in such studies. Specific topics discussed include supersensitivity, guilt feelings in those who are gifted, the gifted underachiever, stress and coping, and fields for future research. (PB)

This article reviews techniques such as bibliotherapy, positive self-talk, and self-concept activities useful in suicide prevention curricula for gifted students. A guidance program designed for the social and emotional needs of the gifted student is proposed, covering such issues as perfectionism, societal expectations, and premature or…

The belief that gifted children are more likely to have personality problems than "normal" individuals is not supported by research, but the image of the disturbed gifted child persists. This paper reviews research from a life-span developmental perspective to examine why this image persists. The paper critically examines the research of L.…

This article uses system thinking to examine the dynamic complexity of perfectionism. These dynamics are explained as an attempt by the perfectionist to achieve cognitive consistency. The unrealistic worldview of a perfectionist generates a catch-22 situation that makes change difficult. Fundamental change requires a worldview that balances…

This article reviews the history of impediments to excellence in the education of the intellectually gifted in the United States. It discusses literacy rate trends, but before and after the 19th century, and describes the Progressive education movement, with its legacy of child-centered pedagogy, ability grouping, vocational training, and emphasis…

This article focuses on heightened multifaceted sensitivity (HMS), a conception of sensitivity that is used in counseling gifted students and their parents. HMS is described and its implications for counseling gifted students are discussed. Case examples are presented of children and adolescents to illustrate characteristics of HMS. (Contains…

Outlines the particular stresses experienced by gifted children arising from the unrealistic expectations of parents and teachers, social handicaps, poor peer relationships, and boring and unrewarding school work. Explains five main "gripes" collected from interviews with gifted and talented children. Lists recommendations for teachers.…

Kazimierz Dabrowski's theory of positive disintegration is applied to counseling gifted students having emotional and adjustment problems. According to the theory, a central feature of psychological growth is a series of disintegrations--progressive contradictions and conflicts that arise from a person's experience of life. Such conflicts and…

This article discusses the affective needs of gifted students and provides information about what counselors can offer to gifted adolescents and their teachers, including affective curriculum, training in active listening, and co-facilitation of discussion groups. Other strategies for addressing social and emotional concerns in programs are also…