On episode 236, Emily Kircher-Morris and Christine Fonseca discuss emotional intensity in gifted students. They explore the reasons behind this intensity, and how it relates to the giftedness experience. They touch on the concept of overexcitabilities and how they manifest in gifted individuals. Also, they emphasize the importance of understanding and accepting the unique characteristics of gifted children rather than pathologizing them, and of embracing discomfort as part of the journey.

Takeaways

Gifted students often experience emotional intensity due to their unique brain wiring and the rich and intense experience of the world.
It is important to avoid pathologizing giftedness and instead focus on creating optimal learning environments and providing appropriate support for gifted individuals.
Living authentically and embracing discomfort can help gifted individuals navigate their intense emotions and make conscious decisions that align with their values and goals.

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With school starting soon, we have an opportunity for educators to learn more about 2e students by taking our course, Strategies for Supporting Twice-Exceptional Students. It’s great for CE credits for educators, and the course will be enlightening to anyone curious about helping 2e students thrive in the classroom.

Christine Fonseca is a licensed educational psychologist, critically acclaimed author, and a nationally recognized speaker on topics related to educational psychology, mental health, giftedness, and using storytelling to heal past wounds. Using her experience consulting and coaching educators and parents, Christine brings her expertise to Psychology Today, authoring the parenting blog Parenting for A New Generation. She has written self-help articles for Parents.com, Johnson & Johnson, and Justine Magazine and appeared on podcasts, radio, and television. Her critically acclaimed titles include Emotional Intensity in Gifted Students, and Letting Go: A Girl’s Guide to Breaking Free From Stress and Anxiety.

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Emotional Intensity in Gifted Students

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⁠The Aesthetic Imperative Chapter 14: Minima Cosmetica, An Essay on Self Aggrandizement (part 2)⁠