Upper and Lower Status Gifted Children: A Study of Differences

Abstract

Groups of gifted and average elementary school children from upper and lower status backgrounds were compared on measures of height, weight, personality traits, interests, activities, and creative thinking. Group differences between upper and lower status gifted children were found to be associated with differences in socioeconomic background. Group differences between gifted and average children regardless of socioeconomic background were also disclosed. The findings emphasize the importance of controlling for socioeconomic status in studies where gifted and nongifted children are compared.