ABSTRACT
To better understand the lives of gifted males, spend some time in a park watching adolescent males play basketball. Observe closely and listen to their conversations. You will hear young men expressing warmth for each other in indirect ways, with lots of goodnatured teasing. Through their animated conversation, you will hear unspoken masculine rules that govern adolescence. They may also report on their views of the girls in their schools. You may learn the latest trends in popular culture and technology and pick up current statistics on prominent athletes. You will certainly hear an assessment of what is wrong with school, which teachers challenge them, and which of their buddies are slacking off academically. You may even get a glimpse into the dreams and aspirations of these young men as they enjoy a game of hoops together.
