The Brain Behind Giftedness

The Brain Behind Giftedness

Brain development that deviates from the norm can impact cognitive ability and result in cognitive delay or acceleration. Current neuroscience research can now show us many of the developmental differences that may occur in the brain of a gifted student. The divergence from neurotypical development increases as cognitive ability increases. Neurological development can also be asynchronous, with specific areas undergoing highly accelerated development with others at a more 'normal' or even delayed rate. The chart below is a compilation of research that outlines specific areas of the brain that can be affected in a gifted child, and what scientists believe to be the related outcome.