Expensive Homes Clever Children?

Abstract

The starting point of this study is the often-voiced opinion that gifted children and adolescents would 'make their way' independently from socio-economic or socio-cultural disadvantages. In order to discuss this prejudice, a social area analysis of San Diego, CA, USA, is conducted: the percentage of identified/treated gifted children and adolescents in all state schools of each zip-(postal) code area and county area is determined. The rank correlation with the corresponding average housing price shows a very high relationship. The discussion comments on deviations from the observed tendency. Further considerations stress the need for identification and promotion of gifted children from lowstimulating disadvantaged homes and minority groups. In respect of future similar studies, it is proposed to look for (more adequately operationalized) specified social area types as units of analysis in addition to the frequently used individual indicators (e.g., occupation of the bread-winner).