The study of giftedness, a condition characterized by an Intelligence Quotient (IQ) significantly above the mean, has been the subject of increasing interest in the scientific community. Recent research has focused on the differences between gifted individuals, with an IQ two standard deviation (SD) units above the mean (2SD), and those with profound giftedness, with an IQ three SD units above the mean (3SD). The results point to a scenario of remarkable heterogeneity, with important implications for understanding and supporting these individuals.
2DP individuals, although demonstrating high intellectual capacity, often present a cognitive profile marked by heightened activity in the frontal region of the brain. This characteristic, associated with executive functions and impulse control, can lead to maladaptive perfectionism and a creativity more focused on the application of pre-existing knowledge than on the generation of innovative ideas. In contrast, 3DP individuals exhibit more uniform cognitive profiles, with a greater capacity for divergent thinking and the exploration of original ideas. This greater cognitive flexibility is associated with a more developed emotional intelligence and creativity that is expressed in the search for innovative solutions in diverse areas.
Differences between the two groups also manifest themselves in the behavioral and educational spheres. 3DP individuals, despite their high intellectual potential, may face more pronounced educational challenges due to the intensity of their emotional and behavioral characteristics. Family dynamics also play an important role, with mothers of 3DP individuals tending to offer greater autonomy and less pressure for academic performance. In contrast, 2DP individuals often report greater parental pressure for academic results, which can boost their performance but also generate anxiety and stress.
In short, research on giftedness reveals a complex and multifaceted panorama, with 2DP and 3DP individuals presenting distinct characteristics and needs. Understanding these nuances is fundamental to the development of effective educational and clinical interventions that promote the integral development and well-being of these individuals. Future studies should delve deeper into the neurobiological bases of giftedness, the interaction between genetic and environmental factors in the development of intelligence and creativity, and the impact of different educational and therapeutic approaches on the well-being and success of individuals with high IQ. (Rodrigues et al., 2024)
Reference :
Rodrigues, FAA, Silveira, FM da, Avila, E., & Brennan, SIMU (2024). Behavioral and cognitive differences between gifted individuals and those with extremely high IQ – people at 2SD and 3SD. Multidisciplinary Scientific Journal Knowledge Center, 8(3), 6411–6426. https://doi.org/10.37811/cl_rcm.v8i3.11831
Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela Rodrigues MRSB holds a post-PhD in Neuroscience and is an elected member of Sigma Xi – The Scientific Research Honor Society (more than 200 members of Sigma Xi have received the Nobel Prize), as well as being a member of the Society for Neuroscience in the United States, the Royal Society of Biology and The Royal Society of Medicine in the United Kingdom, the European Society of Human Genetics in Vienna, Austria, and the APA – American Philosophical Association in the United States. He holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in History and Biology. He is also a Technologist in Anthropology and Philosophy, with several national and international degrees in Neuroscience and Neuropsychology. Dr. Fabiano is a member of prestigious high IQ societies, including Mensa International, Intertel, ISPE High IQ Society, Triple Nine Society, ISI-Society, and HELLIQ Society High IQ. He is the author of more than 300 scientific studies and 30 books. He is currently a visiting professor at PUCRS in Brazil, UNIFRANZ in Bolivia and Santander in Mexico. He also serves as Director of CPAH – Centro de Pesquisa e Análises Heráclito and is the creator of the GIP project, which estimates IQ through the analysis of genetic intelligence. Dr. Fabiano is also a registered journalist, having his name included in the book of records for achieving four records, one of which is for being the greatest creator of characters in the history of the press.