ABSTRACT
Giftedness is more than high performance on a standardized intelligence test. It is a collection of talents and traits affecting all aspects of a person—from cognition to personality to social-emotional development. Gifted children have unique social and emotional traits that influence their life experiences. This chapter reviews the most recent research regarding the common social-emotional characteristics of gifted children and how these impact their overall functioning. In addition to emotional intensity, gifted children often experience high levels of empathy. Current research in the field of gifted education suggests that these levels of empathy are leading to stronger levels of social concern. Gifted people demonstrate the ability to use advanced moral judgment even when faced with peer pressure to engage in acts that compromise their values. Nurturing and developing resiliency in gifted children can serve as a significant protection factor against not only environmental barriers, but also the negative impact of anxiety and emotional distress.
