Hi Gabrielle,
It depends on what you mean by social development. If we're talking about being able to blend in with the many collective mechanisms popularly in use in school, for purposes such as fitting in, then I don't think the gifted, or for that matter, any adolescent should try too hard.
If we are talking about things like teamwork and team spirit, then I think that it is quite important to try and encourage the value of shared success in the gifted adolescent who may be prone to being wrapped up in his/her own world. That said we should also provide such an individual enough space and alone time to do what they excel at, and not stifle their brilliance in an attempt to socialize them.
Lastly, if we're talking about things like social responsibility, basic ethics, like kindness, sensitivity, respect, peaceful coexistence and harmony etc.. then I think it is extremely important that the gifted adolescent be sensitized to that. Intellect without compassion and direction, doesn't mean much.
There shouldn't be major reservations made for the adolescent demographic, although they may be allowed more leeway than grown ups. Let's not forget that adolescents will turn into adults soon enough, and habits and dispositions don't change overnight. They are gained and refined over time.
Cheers,
Monica
valuable thoughts on social responsibility.
My research is indicating that many face 'forced choice dilemma' and alter their identity development to 'fit in'. they want to be accepted, but peers find them difficult to accept if they appear 'different' at adolescence. This is not so much a concern in early childhood or adulthood.
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