Self-Esteem and Achievements of Gifted Students

Abstract

The role of self-esteem in achievements of gifted persons calls for the attention of research workers and for the accumulation of new experiences in this field. Self-esteem is one of the characteristics whose impact on social and personal functioning is emphasised by many authors representing both cognitive and humanistic orientation. The research is based on the theory and practice of Virginia Satir. The author has cooperated with her, and her co-workers.

In this paper, the problem of the influence of self-esteem of gifted youngsters on their achievements is discussed. Their self-esteem does not only affect the level of achievements, but also their social functioning and attitudes of the environment towards them. Concrete forms of work with them aiming at the elevation of their real self-esteem and at the improvement of their relations with other people are also discussed. Some assumptions and hypotheses are formulated for discussion but strong emphasis is given to the importance of self-esteem in the process of the learning of gifted children and adolescents.

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