Selective achievers are intrinsically motivated individuals whose performance matches ability only in specific areas that satisfy their interests and personal goal orientations. Through a qualitative research design, this study investigated the phenomenon of selective achievement by examining the experiences of 2 gifted university males. The…

The challenges facing contemporary boys are complex, highlighting the importance of positive paternal influence for young men to achieve success. This study examines the father-son relationships of 10 prominent gifted men of achievement to identify factors influencing talent development. Through biographical analysis, 6 significant themes were…

Many gifted Asian American adolescent males face cultural issues that may impact their success. This article presents important cultural dilemmas faced by 2 gifted Asian American young men. Through a qualitative approach, the acculturation experiences of John and Matt, gifted Taiwanese, second generation immigrants, are described.…

This study examined, through a qualitative research design, the differences between underachievement and selective achievement in a gifted university student. Findings indicated that, while the participant demonstrated behaviors typically associated with underachievement, his healthy self-concept, self-regulation, and strong metacognitive…

The experiences of five gifted black males in a predominantly white university setting were examined. Significant factors that influenced their achievement included influential mothers, recognition of giftedness, and support from significant teachers and mentors. Additional factors included involvement in extracurricular activities and positive…

The lives of six gifted, male undergraduates were examined to understand how their life experiences influenced their decision to pursue elementary education as a career. Results found they had a strong belief in self, which was influenced by formative experiences with difficult issues, exposure to male teachers, and open-minded parents. (Contains…

This case study chronicles a 4th grade teacher's experiences in facilitating a program involving 18 university students as mentors for six gifted students. Major findings indicate a thoughtfully designed program resulting in partnerships that provided the high-ability students with an intellectually stimulating experience combined with strong…

Recounts the educational experience of an artistically talented adolescent in an urban setting. Notes the teenager's struggle to find a place for himself in his community and school and the resulting problems with underachievement. (Author/DB)

The case studies reported in this article describe the experiences of two gifted African-American males in an urban high school, one an achiever and one an underachiever. Factors that distinguished the school-life experiences of the two gifted young men are identified and implications for fostering academic achievement are discussed. (Author/CR)