The diversity of adaptive difficulties and individual typologies in a population of children with high intellectual potential
Past research has shown contrasting and controversial results concerning difficulties encountered by gifted children. The objective of this study is to link potential difficulties in gifted children's to their self-evaluation and individual characteristics. A sample of 98 children aged between 10 and 15 months whose intelligence quotient (IQ) was equal to or higher than 130 participated in this study. Two methods were selected: a) a collect of anamnesis data from the mother; b) child auto evaluations questionnaires (Personality and Motivation). Factor analyses distinguished clearly evironnemental and personnal dimensions of difficulties in adaptation. Typological analyses indicate a diversity of more or less functional developmental pathways. Having most difficulties was more strongly associated with contextual factors than biological predispositions. These findings are important for programs aimed at prevention of psychopathological and developmental difficulties.