Strengths and Vulnerabilities: Exploring Characteristics, Complexities, Emotional and Social Needs of the Gifted

Strengths and Vulnerabilities: Exploring Characteristics, Complexities, Emotional and Social Needs of the Gifted

Gifted children not only think differently; because of their thinking, gifted youth feel differently, as well.  Thinking and feelings impact upon social relationships.  These characteristics and associated patterns of behaviour are gifted children’s strengths … and may simultaneously be their vulnerabilities.  Understanding the psychosocial characteristics of gifted youth is critical if we are to know how to support the emotional and social needs of gifted students while simultaneously providing optimal intellectual and academic challenges – whether at home or at school. 

PRESENTER

Michele Juratowitch is Director of Clearing Skies, providing a range of services including counselling, parent education, advocacy, consultancy, professional development, programs, research and resources to support the needs of gifted children, adolescents, their parents, teachers and organisations. Michele was awarded a Churchill Fellowship and is a frequent presenter at schools and conferences.