Gifted children are often characterized by their high intelligence, creativity, and academic talent compared to their peers. However, some research suggests that gifted children may be more likely to have behavior issues or “act out” compared to non-gifted children. In this article, we will explore some of the reasons why gifted children may act out and provide strategies for supporting their social-emotional needs.
Why do gifted children act out?
There are several theories as to why gifted children may be more prone to behavior issues:
Boredom in school
Gifted children often find the regular school curriculum too easy or boring. They may act out due to frustration, lack of stimulation, or unmet learning needs. For example, a gifted child who has already mastered basic math skills may become disruptive in class because they are unchallenged.
Perfectionism
Many gifted children set extremely high expectations for themselves. When they cannot reach their own unrealistic standards, gifted kids may act out due to frustration and dissatisfaction. Perfectionism can also lead to anxiety, fear of failure, and avoidance behaviors.
Overexcitability
The theory of overexcitability suggests that gifted children have increased sensitivity and intensity in one or more areas: intellectual, imaginational, emotional, psychomotor, and sensual. This overexcitability can lead to heightened reactions, emotions, or impulsive behavior. A gifted child absorbed in a book may have an emotional meltdown when pulled away.
Asynchronous development
Gifted children often develop cognitively faster than they develop emotionally and physically. This asynchronous development means intellectually gifted kids may act out behaviors more typical of younger children. A gifted 8-year-old may understand physics but still throw temper tantrums like a 4-year-old.
Lack of challenge
Schools often do not provide adequate stimulation and challenge to engage gifted minds. Gifted kids may turn to disruptive behaviors in class to make learning more exciting. Acting out may be an ineffective way to assert their needs.
Feeling different
Many gifted children realize they are different from their peers which can lead to isolation or unhappiness. Acting out could be a way to gain acceptance or attention from classmates. Bullying of gifted children can also provoke behavioral problems.
Common behavior issues in gifted children
While the behaviors can vary greatly depending on the child, here are some of the most common behavior issues seen among intellectually gifted children:
Disruption in the classroom
– Calling out
– Getting out of seat frequently
– Interrupting the teacher
– Silly behavior to get laughs
– Refusing to do work
Problems with focus and attention
– Easily distracted by noises or thoughts
– Difficulty maintaining attention on tasks or play
– Appearing to “daydream” frequently
– Avoiding tasks requiring sustained focus
Hyperactivity or restlessness
– Constant motion or fidgeting
– Difficulty sitting still
– Always “on the go”
– Impulsive physical actions
Perfectionism
– Extreme fear of failure
– Extensive erasing or redoing work
– Refusing to attempt tasks
– Severe procrastination
Underachievement
– Failure to complete assignments
– Not performing to demonstrated ability level
– Low motivation
– Avoidance of challenge
Aggression or defiance
– Temper tantrums
– Argues when denied own way
– Refuses teacher requests
– Blames others for mistakes
– Damages property
Social struggles
– Bossy toward peers
– Trouble compromising
– Difficulty reading social cues
– Prefers solitary activities
– Complains of boredom
Strategies for supporting gifted children
If your gifted child is having behavior issues, there are ways you can provide support at home and advocate for their needs at school.
Provide mental stimulation
– Give access to high-level books, materials, and activities. Don’t limit them to only “age-appropriate” things.
– Encourage creative hobbies like programming, filmmaking, writing, crafts, music, or art.
– Teach advanced skills like chess, robotics, sewing, woodworking, or coding.
– Expose them to culturally enriching activities like museums, travel, theater, and concerts.
Teach coping strategies
– Help them recognize intense emotions and reframe perfectionistic thinking.
– Encourage physical outlets like sports or exercise to relieve stress.
– Teach calming techniques like deep breathing, visualization, and meditation.
– Work on social skills like managing disappointment and taking turns.
Build on strengths
– Identify areas where they excel and provide accelerated learning in those domains.
– Foster independence and self-direction so they can manage their abilities.
– Offer leadership opportunities, competition, and outlets for expertise.
– Connect them to peers with similar abilities.
Advocate at school
– Ask for subject or grade acceleration when appropriate.
– Request differentiated instruction tailored to their abilities.
– Suggest counseling to help them cope with giftedness.
– If necessary, seek assessment for special education services.
– Partner with teachers to meet their intellectual, social and emotional needs.
When to seek professional help
You may want to seek professional support if your gifted child’s behavior:
– Disrupts learning for themselves and others
– Leads to rejection by peers or isolation
– Causes problems in multiple environments like home and school
– Is extreme, dangerous, or unmanageable for you
– Continues even with your interventions
A psychologist can provide testing and counseling for your gifted child. Seeking help early on can prevent small issues from progressing into larger problems.
Conclusion
While many gifted kids thrive academically and socially, some struggle with difficult behaviors. With sensitivity to their unique needs, we can provide gifted children with a nurturing environment where their intellectual talents are developed in tandem with social-emotional skills. Supporting gifted children requires understanding the root causes behind their actions so they can reach their full potential.