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Abstract

This paper explores gifted girls' perceptions on the meaning of life. Ninety-five gifted sixth-grade students completed tests on moral reasoning (DIT) and spiritual sensitivity. Two illustrative cases of girls who had either high or low scores in the tests are presented with phenomenological analysis of their perceptions on the meaning of life. The cases of Jean and Susan show that students with similar academic profiles can have very different world-views and orientations in life. These differences are reflected in their spiritual sensitivity and moral judgment. Furthermore, the world-views can guide gifted girls in their career choices more than their academic strengths. The main challenge to teachers and counsellors is to guide gifted girls to make career choices that make them happy. The counsellors need to show gifted girls that their professional choices can suit their personal life orientations. In this process educators should be aware of the world-views of gifted girls.

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How Do Gifted Girls Perceive the Meaning of Life?

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