Die herkenning en hantering van die begaafde kind

Abstract

In this article the identification of, the coping with, and the current position of the gifted child in South Africa, as well as characteristics of the gifted child and factors which influence giftedness, are discussed. As the parent-child and teacher-child relationships are essential in the identification of and coping with the gifted child, this aspect is stressed. The teacher-child relationships is of great importance, but it is still society's prerogative to value these children for what they are and can be:- They are our greatest asset, forthcoming leaders, inventors and excellars in every sphere of life. The problems which these gifted children experience are discussed, namely under-achievement, emotional disturbances and mal-adjustments. If we think of the high failing rate at Universities, and especially that of the above average intellectual students, one must accept that these problems originate in school ag a result of lack of interest in schoolwork which is precipitated by no challenge and no stimuli and a high level of frustration as a result of boredom. These students are used to achieving success without any effort, and thus cannot cope at Qniversity and are therefore lost forever. Who is to blame?