Gifted and Talented Report

I recently came across an excellent article on gifted students called Introversion: The often forgotten factor impacting the gifted by Burruss & Kaenzig.

In this environment of social distancing and remote learning, I wonder what impact the increased isolation might be having on those who are introverted. 

Firstly, it is important to note that being an introvert is a personality trait. They have a preference for independent work, privacy and a small group of friends, and this suits them perfectly. According to Henjum (1982), introverts can be self-sufficient, confident, hardworking, self-actualizing, reserved, hold firm goals, and prefer activities that involve inner experience and introspection. Unfortunately, constant criticism about being ‘shy’ or ‘antisocial’ can be harmful and the individual can start to feel misunderstood. They don’t need other people all the time, they get their energy from themselves.

Like we see in traits of perfectionism, a little is beneficial but too much is harmful. 

When to be concerned:

• When the individual has no friends and spends all their time alone… but not by choice. 
• When the individual is depressed about having no friends. 
• When the individual refuses to work with others for any reason.

In this time of remote learning, they might be thriving in their learning – independent work suits them perfectly and they are away from the noise and hustle and bustle of school. Socially however, perhaps remote learning has meant they are feeling excluded and they may not have the confidence to reach out to others.

Since they are considered quiet, perhaps their peers have forgotten to include them. In this situation, try and help your child formulate an email or text message where she initiates a conversation. You can even go one step further and help her set up a Zoom or Facetime with friends. They may be unsure of what to write, so help your child compose the message and be there as she sends it to show your support.

If you do have concerns, external support may be needed through counsellors. Social skills programs can also be utilised to help gain confidence in making and maintaining connections with peers.

For more parent and schooling tips, visit here. For more information, please see this excellent journal article, which I have referred to in this article.

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #2 & #6