PSYCHOLOGICAL INTENSITIES IN YOUNG GIFTED-CHILDREN

Emotional sensitivity and emotional intensity are well documented in g ifted children, Dabrowski (1967, 1972) proposed that sensitivity and i ntensity were st part of these children's psychological makeup and ins tead of being indicators of neurotic imbalances, were positive potenti als For further growth. These characteristics were displayed in gifted children through 5 overexcitabilities: psychomotor, sensual, intellec tual, imaginational, and emotional. This theory was investigated using a qualitative case study methodology Data were collected on 5 young g ifted children (ages 4 through 6) and analyzed using Dabrowski's 5 ove rexcitabilities as a theoretical framework. Results displayed that the 5 overexcitabilities were manifested in the children through behavior s in the classroom and at home. Results support the use of Dabrowski's theory in identifying and understanding some aspects of the behavior of young gifted children.