A Comparative Study of Perceived Victimization, Perceived Anonymity, Self-Esteem, and Preferred Teacher Characteristics of Gifted and Talented and Non-Labeled Early Adolescents

Abstract

This study compared results from gifted and talented and non-labeled early adolescents on measures of self esteem, victimization, anonymity, and preferred teacher characteristics. A total of 260 non-labeled and 115 gifted and talented fifth through eighth grade students were included in the sample. Significant differences were found between the groups on perceived anonymity and preferred teacher characteristics with gifted and talented students preferring person oriented teachers and feeling less anonymous than non-labeled students. More similarities than differences were found. Both groups had positive self esteem, did not feel highly victimized nor anonymous, and preferred teachers who are person rather than academic oriented.