6 Types of Gifted People - Which One Are You?

Summary

This video explores six different types of gifted individuals, as identified by researchers George Betts and Maureen Neihart. These include the Successful, Challenging, Underground, Drop-out, Double-labeled, and Autonomous types. Each type is described by their unique traits, behaviors, and struggles, ranging from high academic achievers to those who hide their giftedness or face difficulties due to disabilities. The video emphasizes the need for support systems and understanding to help gifted individuals reach their full potential. Viewers are encouraged to reflect on which type they identify with.

Takeaways

• 🧠 Giftedness is not limited to high IQ or being a prodigy; there are many overlooked types of giftedness.
• 📚 Researchers George Betts and Maureen Neihart identified six types of gifted individuals based on behaviors, feelings, and needs.
• 🏆 Type 1: The Successful Type - Recognized for academic achievements, but may struggle with identity issues and lack of emotional growth due to high expectations.
• 💥 Type 2: The Challenging Type - Creative and unconventional, often questions authority and feels stifled by traditional school settings, risking delinquent behavior.
• 🤐 Type 3: The Underground Type - Hides their giftedness to fit in, often feeling insecure and needing support from peers, parents, and teachers.
• 🚪 Type 4: The Drop-Out Type - Feels rejected and frustrated due to a lack of recognition, often misaligned with school curricula and at risk of dropping out.
• 🧩 Type 5: The Double Labeled Type - Gifted individuals with disabilities, like dyslexia or dysgraphia, who need extra support to thrive.
• 🌟 Type 6: The Autonomous Type - Independent and self-reliant, these individuals are natural leaders who succeed by leveraging the system to their advantage.
• 🔄 Many gifted individuals may identify with more than one type, showcasing a blend of characteristics.
• 📢 The video encourages viewers to reflect on which type they relate to and emphasizes the importance of recognizing diverse forms of giftedness.

Q & A

What is the common misconception about being gifted?

The common misconception about being gifted is that it only refers to having a high IQ or being a child prodigy. However, there are many different types of giftedness that are often overlooked and undervalued.

Who first studied the different types of gifted individuals?

Researchers George Betts and Maureen Neihart first studied the different types of gifted individuals in their 1988 article, 'Profiles of the Gifted and Talented.'

What are the characteristics of the 'successful type' of gifted individuals?

The 'successful type' of gifted individuals is the most commonly recognized. They are known for their impressive academic performances and achievements. However, they may become bored with school and lose their passion for learning due to the high expectations placed on them.

Why might 'successful type' gifted individuals struggle as adults?

They might struggle as adults because parents and teachers often focus too much on developing their intelligence, talents, and skills, which can stunt their personal, social, and emotional growth, making them competent but unimaginative and ill-adjusted adults.

What defines the 'challenging type' of gifted individuals?

The 'challenging type' of gifted individuals is characterized by their creativity, tenacity, and unconventional thinking. They often question authority and think outside the box, making them appear disruptive and nonconforming in structured environments like schools.

What problems do 'challenging type' gifted individuals face in school?

They often feel frustrated in school settings because their creativity is stifled, their abilities are overlooked, and they don't receive enough recognition for their giftedness. This can lead them to develop delinquent behaviors or drop out of school.

Why do 'underground type' gifted individuals hide their giftedness?

'Underground type' gifted individuals may hide their giftedness to feel more included in a non-gifted peer group, to avoid pressure to excel, or because they dislike the attention that comes with being labeled as gifted.

What are the emotional struggles faced by 'drop-out type' gifted individuals?

'Drop-out type' gifted individuals often struggle with feelings of anger, frustration, and depression because their giftedness is overlooked. They may feel rejected and unappreciated, which affects their self-esteem.

What is unique about 'double labeled type' gifted individuals?

'Double labeled type' gifted individuals have a physical or emotional handicap, such as dyslexia or dysgraphia, which can make it harder for school systems to identify them as gifted. Their handicaps may also make it more challenging for them to complete tasks or fulfill structured requirements.

What are the strengths of 'autonomous type' gifted individuals?

'Autonomous type' gifted individuals are independent, conscientious, and self-reliant. They are resourceful, goal-oriented, natural leaders, and they often succeed because they know how to navigate and utilize the school system to their advantage.

How do 'autonomous type' gifted individuals differ from 'successful type' gifted individuals?

While both 'autonomous type' and 'successful type' individuals may find success and recognition, 'autonomous type' individuals are not focused on impressing others or fitting in. They are aware of their giftedness but prioritize personal goals over external validation.

What is the purpose of Psych2Go's video on the six types of gifted individuals?

The purpose of the video is to educate viewers about the six different types of gifted individuals identified by researchers, highlighting the diversity of giftedness and the unique challenges and strengths associated with each type.