Kazimierz Dabrowski's (1902-1980) five-level theory of personality development, the Theory of Positive Disintegration, is one in which the experience of all emotions is essential for the process of individual growth toward the personality ideal. In this article, we introduce the phenomenological and existential influences on Dabrowski, including…

This study attempted to identify gifted child humorists among 1,204 children in grades 3-6. Final identification of 13 gifted child humorists was determined through application of such criteria as funniness, originality, and exemplary performance or product. The influence of intelligence, development, social factors, sex differences, family…

This study investigated factors affecting lifespan achievement as perceived by 16 gifted women from 15 countries outside the United States. Results indicated that the gifted women shared personal characteristics of determination, willingness to take risks, and a will to achieve their goals. Eight positive coping strategies are described.…

Eminent Canadian women (n=197) provided their perceptions of their parents' characteristics. The women generally saw their parents as encouraging, supportive, achievement-oriented, and not particularly controlling. Most identified their mother as the most influential person in their lives. Results support the idea that there are multiple pathways…

Explores the resilience of three gifted Latino high school students who live in the inner city. The sources of their resilience are examined. Implications for resilience in gifted youth are discussed and recommendations are made for nurturing resilience in urban teenagers to ensure greater success in life. (Author/CR)

This study identified early conditions of successful adults, via a historical analysis of psychological traits and childhood environments of 38 notable 20th-century American women writers. The study rated multiple traits and conditions representing cognitive, affective, familial, and educational aspects. Results focus on the degree of persistence…

Factors that influence precollege decision making were investigated, through case studies of three rural gifted female college students. Participants saw themselves as intelligent, independent, outspoken, and goal-directed, and expected to be involved in dual career and partnership relationships. Career decisions, family support, and time…