Giftedness researchers have long debated whether there is empirical evidence to support a distinction between giftedness and attained level of achievement. In this paper we propose a general theoretical framework that establishes scientific criteria for acceptable evidence of superior reproducible performance, which any theory of exceptional…

This paper deals with the main aspects of the work carried out by the Center for Talented Youth Spain since its founding. The educational model applied here is based on the "Study of mathematically precocious youth", developed by Julian Stanley in the early seventies and currently the inspiration behind all the centers belonging to Center for…

This article describes the knowledge and skills that comprise personal talent and distinguish it from personal competence and several related psychological constructs, such as social intelligence, motivation, and wisdom. Finally, the usefulness of the theory of personal talent for research in high ability studies is discussed. (Contains…

This article examines evidence both for and against early specialization in the development of sports expertise and presents the early diversification approach as another path leading to elite levels of performance. It discusses sports dropout and questions the link between early sports specialization and exceptional sports performance. (Contains…