Unilevel disintegration, the second level in Dabrowski's theory, does not have a structure comparable to the higher levels. It also lacks direction. If so, one is bound to ask what is developmental about it and what, in fact, is developing in level II. Two classsic studies and one of highly gifted adults show three possible kinds of emotional…

Individual and cross-case analyses were employed to explore how the pursuit of career and life satisfaction was defined and resolved by 11 elite female scientists. Issues addressed included professional advancement structures in science, the funding climate for research, constraints of significant others' careers, commitment to social change, and…

The self-actualization of 167 women who lived in the Martha Cook (MC) dormitory of the University of Michigan (1950-1970) was compared to that of a group of Ivy League men researched in another study. In addition, two groups of MC women were compared to each other to identify differences which might explain why some self-actualized while other did…

This study analyzed the lifespan development of 80 women who are contemporary creative writers. Themes in the women writers' lives were characterized by developmental events, including nurturing of talents by both male and female teachers and mentors; professional situations; and core personality/personal attributes that were similar to men…

Gifted adults are recognized by society solely by their achievements, though the unusual developmental trajectory of the gifted creates an extraordinary experience of life at any age. The achievement orientation is now taking over gifted education and makes it difficult for the gifted to understand and honor the qualities of mind that make them…

Interviews with six women from working class backgrounds, who had succeeded in higher education, identified common issues in growing up gifted and talented in the working class, the dearth of role models and mentors, the loss of connection with family and friends, and a sense of impostership. (DB)

A study of 89 California Institute of Technology 1943 male graduates revealed that the men were highly productive, gifted individuals who contributed greatly to their scientific fields, maintained stable and satisfying family lives, contributed to their communities, pursued avocations in considerable depth, and found creative means for expressing…