From Managing Stigma to Forming Friendships: Introducing a Model of Friendship Development

Abstract

Parents, teachers, counselors, and others are rightfully concerned about how to support students with gifts and talents in making friends while maintaining their interest in learning. Building on decades of research, the authors describe the model of High-Ability Students' Friendship Development Process. This process is described in a flowchart and clarifies points of intervention. When those who work with students with gifts and talents are aware of the importance that differences in ability make in their friendships, they can guide them toward building healthy relationships.