Parents’ Insights Regarding the Social and Emotional Lives of Young Highly to Profoundly Gifted Children

This qualitative study sought to examine the perceptions of parents of young highly to profoundly gifted learners regarding their child’s social and emotional characteristics and related needs. A phenomenological design was used to collect data from a purposive sample of 12 parents of highly to profoundly gifted children aged 6 – 8 through semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis and generated four overarching themes including (a) social-emotional complexity and intensity; (b) nurturing needs during early elementary school; (c) seeking community and understanding; and (d) misunderstanding and misconceptions of HG/PG children. Findings from this study inform educators, counselors, therapists, and related service providers of the lived experiences of families of highly to profoundly gifted children and their needs.