The study by Karpinski et al. (2018), published in the journal Intelligence, raises an intriguing and often overlooked question: are people with high intelligence (IQ ≥ 130) more likely to suffer from psychological disorders and physiological conditions, such as allergies, asthma and autoimmune diseases? The research proposes the hyper brain/hyper body theory, suggesting that the heightened cognitive and emotional sensitivity of these individuals may have negative consequences for their mental and physical health.
A look at the study and its implications
The data, collected from self-reports by 3,715 American Mensa members, indicate that individuals with high IQs are at higher risk for disorders such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder, as well as immunological conditions such as allergies and autoimmune diseases. The study suggests that this population is particularly vulnerable due to a heightened level of emotional and physiological reactivity to environmental stimuli.
The hyperbrain/hyperbody theory presents a novel view: the highly efficient brains of these individuals would be in a constant state of alert, processing stimuli intensely and frequently. This, in turn, would generate chronic stress that could dysregulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, affecting the immune system and predisposing them to disease.
Critical reflections
Although the study makes an important contribution to understanding the challenges faced by gifted individuals, it also faces limitations that deserve attention:
1. Sample and methodology:
The exclusive use of self-reported data from Mensa members limits the generalizability of the findings. Although Mensa is comprised of highly intelligent individuals, it does not reflect the full diversity of this population. Furthermore, the lack of a rigorously assessed control group makes it difficult to confirm that the findings are specific to high IQ.
2. Correlations are not causation:
The study demonstrates an association between high IQ and a higher prevalence of psychological and physiological conditions, but does not prove causality. Environmental, genetic, or sociocultural factors may be contributing to these results.
3. The complexity of giftedness:
Giftedness is not homogeneous. Factors such as creativity, emotional intelligence, and personality traits vary widely among highly intelligent individuals and can influence outcomes.
4. Vulnerability as strength:
The study focuses on the challenges associated with high IQ, but does not explore how these characteristics can also be sources of strength and resilience. High emotional sensitivity, for example, can be a driver for empathy, innovation and overcoming challenges.
The relevance of the discussion
The findings of Karpinski et al. highlight the importance of recognizing the specific needs of gifted individuals. Society often views high intelligence as an advantage, neglecting the psychological and physical challenges that often accompany this profile. This reinforces the need for specialized support, both in the field of mental health and in educational and social interventions, that address the complexities of this group.
Conclusion
The hyperbrain/hyperbody theory opens doors to a new understanding of the implications of high intelligence. Although more research is needed to validate the findings and clarify the underlying mechanisms, the study already points to a key aspect: the balance between the benefits and challenges of high IQ. As a society, we must embrace and support gifted individuals, helping them transform their sensitivity and intensity into strength and achievement.
References
Karpinski, RI, Kolb, AMK, Tetreault, NA, & Borowski, TB (2018). High intelligence: A risk factor for psychological and physiological overexcitabilities. Intelligence, 66, 8–23. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.intell.2017.09.001
