ABSTRACT
This chapter examines how the manifestations of extreme intelligence – in differentials between high-IQ/gifted individuals and others particularly in terms of effort required and speed of functioning – come to be recognised by self and others, and what sorts of intrapersonal and interpersonal reactions this can trigger. Such reactions can range from a sense of guilt at the unfairness of the individual differences involved, and high-IQ underachievement, through to hubris and high-IQ crime. This is explored in relation to themes of belonging and competing: high ability can help a person to compete successfully but can also make a high-IQ/gifted person feel like – and be treated as – an outsider. Typical attendant difficulties of envy and a breakdown in compassion and empathy are explained, together with high-IQ/gifted individuals’ attempts to protect themselves against these difficulties by hiding their true abilities. Concepts drawn on to demonstrate the importance of belonging include homophily (Ingram & Morris) and twinship transference (Kohut). The relevance of Feather’s work on “cutting down tall poppies” and Schadenfreude, and Mueller & Dweck’s on the effects of praise, is considered. These themes are evidenced throughout with excerpts from Sonja Falck’s qualitative research interviews that are presented and analysed.
