Characteristics of the Gifted Individual
“Every gift contains a danger. Whatever gift we have we are compelled to express. And if the expression of that gift is blocked, distorted, or merely allowed to languish, then the gift turns against us, and we suffer.”
— L. Johnson
In the previous Blog entry I briefly mentioned some of the general traits of being Gifted. To further expand, the characteristics are usually broken down into six categories: General Intellectual Ability, Specific Academic Ability, Creative Ability, Leadership Ability, Affective/Social-Emotional Characteristics and Psychomotor Characteristics. Again keeping in mind that the Gifted person doesn’t have to display all of these traits to be considered Gifted.
The following information came from Duke University Talent Identification Program.
General Intellectual Ability
Shows an intense interest and curiosity in a variety of subjects. As a result, has a tendency to question everything and seek in depth information about the specific area of interest.
Has an extensive vocabulary when speaking and articulates well verbally.
Avid reader and may have started reading at an early stage.
Processes information differently and at a rapid rate, therefore able to learn quickly.
Keen ability to problem solve through logical thinking, integrating ideas from subjects and able to understand and grasp meaning of abstract concepts.
Shows ability for focused concentration. Highly observant and perceptive.
Specific Academic Ability
Displays unusual capacity to absorb large quantities of information as well as able to retain the information.
Comprehension abilities are at advanced levels.
Highly competent working with numbers.
Intense and persistent around working towards goals
Shows a long attention span, especially on a topic of intense interest
Creative Ability
Displays ability for adaptable and flexible processing during problem solving.
Ability to postpone final solution or product until completely processed.
Enjoys challenges.
Has a vivid imagination and able to come up with original ideas and clever solutions.
Shows innovation in written, oral or artistic expression.
Displays independent thinking.
Sharp and clever sense of humor
Has a sense of adventure and doesn’t mind taking risks.
A predisposition for individuality and nonconforming
Leadership Ability
Is able to access and evaluate not only self, but others.
Tendency towards perfectionism and holds high expectations for self and others.
Easily self critical.
Advanced ability to understand and interpret social problems both cognitively and emotionally.
Displays a degree of self-confidence.
Very Responsible and dependable.
Ability to work well in a team environment, but also tends to take on the leader role.
Is free to express opinions and is comfortable questioning authority.
Affective/Social-Emotional Characteristics
Can become easily overwhelmed emotionally.
Sensitive to feelings and expectations of others.
Highly self aware.
Tends towards idealism with social concerns such as fairness and justice.
Contains a depth and intensity when it comes to emotions and compassion.
Highly values following through principles with person actions.
Has a strong sensitivity and conviction around moral judgment.
Values ongoing self-actualization.
Psychomotor Characteristics
Due to a heightened sense of awareness has a tendency to take in large amounts of environmental stimulation.
Tendency towards Asynchronous (physical and intellectual development does not occur simultaneously).
Tends to be highly energetic.
