In the field of psychology, Gifted is a term used to describe individuals who have either achieved a standardized test score in the upper range of the population, or who have accomplished tasks beyond those usually expected at their age. Research suggests that there are differences in the physiology of Gifted individuals’ brains which may explain how this occurs. In a series of three webcasts, I explore how these physiological differences and other facets of Gifted development can impact one’s sense of identity, and ultimately, happiness. The majority of the video in these webcasts is drawn from a presentation originally given in Lake Charles, Louisiana, in July 2008, at the 50th anniversary reunion for the Louisiana Governor’s Program for Gifted Children (GPGC); and thus has a live interactive quality with that specific audience.

In the first webcast (Part 1), I present an overview of all three webcasts, some thoughts about the usefulness of psychology in general, and summarize three different theories of psychology (Erikson, Debrowski, and Linehan) which are referenced in the other webcasts in this series.

The second webcast in this series (Part 2), available on this page, presents information about aspects of Giftedness other than intellectual prowess. It begins by presenting the various definitions currently in use for the term Gifted, and proceeds to explore their implications. It addresses the physiological development of the Gifted brain and expands on how that impacts psychosocial development, as seen through the lens of three theories of psychology and development (Erikson, Debrowski, and Linehan). It concludes with a review of the emotional implications of Giftedness, along with its social impact, formation of identity, and gender-based differences.

In the third webcast (part 3) I expand on Giftedness in the later stages of the lifespan, particularly the adult and elder years. This includes challenges for the Gifted person in the workplace, different ways Giftedness can manifest, and coping strategies often employed by Gifted individuals.
The first and third parts of this series are available as independently-downloadable webcasts on other pages you will find in this section of the site. A summary of the entire presentation is included in part 3, along with a list of references and cited sources, including indications of where to find complete versions of the videos from which excerpts have been included.

While these presentations are based on research specific to the Gifted population, the information may be relevant to different degrees for anyone ranked in the top 10% of the population, in terms of intelligence. All original materials presented here are copywritten by Cal J Domingue, MFT, and should not be re-used or re-posted without express written permission from the author.

Video – Part Two