100 Words of Wisdom: James T. Webb, Ph.D.

Bright, intensely sensitive and idealistic children and adults can envision possibilities but may suffer frustration, perfectionism, disillusionment and existential depression. Supportive relationships that offer understanding and nurturance help prevent isolation and foster their idealism, which is essential for creating a better world.

Share this post

When intensity and sensitivity are combined with idealism, as so often happens with bright children and adults, good things can happen because they can keenly see how things might be. But this can also lead to frustration, disillusionment, and unhappiness. Sometimes this prompts perfectionism; other times it results in existential depression. Through our relationships, we must provide understanding and nurturance so that they do not feel alone and helpless in a world that seems so paradoxical, arbitrary, and even absurd. We can help nurture their idealism, and indeed we must if the world is to become a better place.

Your SENG Library Card

A SENG membership means joining a community that understands the unique joys and challenges of giftedness. As a member, you’ll gain access to the full SENGlibary, SENGvine newsletters, and support designed to help gifted individuals and their families thrive.