Human intelligence, a complex and multifaceted trait, manifests itself on a spectrum that extends multiple standard deviations (SD) above the population mean. The differences between gifted individuals (IQ between 130 and 144, 2 SD) and those with profound giftedness (IQ between 145 and 160, 3 SD) are not limited to scores on psychometric tests, but permeate biology, cognition and behavior.
Neurobiologically, individuals with profound giftedness (3 DP) present different characteristics in relation to gifted individuals (2 DP). Neuroimaging studies reveal greater volume and connectivity in brain regions associated with higher cognitive processing, such as the prefrontal cortex (responsible for planning and decision-making), the parietal cortex (involved in sensory integration and spatial reasoning) and the hippocampus ( essential for memory formation). Optimized neuronal communication, potentially facilitated by greater density of glutamate receptors, may contribute to the processing speed and cognitive efficiency observed in these individuals.
From a genetic point of view, intelligence is a polygenic trait, influenced by a myriad of genetic variants. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified genes related to neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and regulation of gene expression as potential contributors to exceptional intelligence. The complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors shapes cognitive development and individual trajectory, and individuals with profound giftedness (3 PD) may present a unique combination of genetic variants that enhance their cognitive abilities.
Behaviorally, individuals with profound giftedness (3 DP) often exhibit more pronounced traits compared to gifted individuals (2 DP), such as insatiable curiosity, divergent thinking, high abstraction capacity and emotional intensity. The search for knowledge and the need for intellectual challenges can drive them to seek high educational levels and excel in areas that require complex cognitive skills. Intensity, a striking trait in many individuals with profound giftedness (3 DP), manifests itself in different spheres of life, such as passion for areas of interest, emotional depth and heightened sensitivity.
In relation to thought patterns, individuals with profound giftedness (3 DP) often demonstrate greater ease in dealing with abstractions, identifying complex patterns and making connections between apparently distinct concepts. The ability to think multidimensionally, to consider multiple perspectives and to integrate information from different sources quickly and efficiently is a striking characteristic of this group.
Furthermore, creativity, the ability to generate original and innovative ideas, tends to be more pronounced in individuals with profound giftedness (3 SD). The combination of high intellectual capacity, divergent thinking and passion for areas of interest can boost the production of creative work and the resolution of complex problems in an innovative way.
It is important to highlight that, despite the neurobiological, genetic and behavioral differences between gifted individuals (2 DP) and those with profound giftedness (3 DP), both groups have the potential for significant contributions in different areas of knowledge and society. Adequate identification and support are essential for each individual to develop their skills and reach their full potential.
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