Gifted children and superior individuals have been recognized from the beginning of mankind's attempt to live in groups. However, the criteria for designating the gifted individual have varied with the nature and complexity of the culture. Of course, provisions for special education have varied, too; and they have frequently been unsystematic, poorly organized, and inadequate. This chapter
... [Show full abstract] discusses the role of gifted persons in social progress; factors associated with recognition of the gifted child; and the identification of the gifted. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)