What is Twice Exceptional (2E)?

In my last post, I wrote about Mensa and the requirements for acceptance.  The main criteria for Mensa is an IQ score of 132 or above.  As I mentioned in my previous report, 132 is very high and one I rarely see.

When we think about “giftedness,” Mensa is an organization that often comes to mind.  As I noted in my previous post, I get referrals from parents looking to test their children for giftedness.  I always enjoy these evaluations, as working with high-ability children is interesting and fun!

But sometimes when I am testing a child for giftedness, I may also observe learning challenges or limitations in other ares for that particular child.  And that brings us to the concept of Twice Exceptional.

What is Twice Exceptional?

The term “twice exceptional” originated in the 1990s, as the understanding and acceptance of learning disabilities and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder became more commonplace in mainstream education.  At that time, researchers began identifying gifted students who, for whatever reason, struggled to maximize their incredibly high IQs.

As research uncovered more and more about these particular learners, it became increasingly clear that some of these highly intelligent students also experienced underlying disabilities that significantly impacted their performance in the classroom.  It was at this time that educators recognized 2E students as possessing two traits:

• Giftedness

• Disability

Giftedness

The idea of giftedness often refers to one’s intelligence.  As noted in my previous post, Mensa considers giftedness an IQ of 132.  However, in terms of 2E, “giftedness” is not so easily quantifiable and leaves room for interpretation.  When considering 2E, giftedness certainly may include one's IQ, but it may also include characteristics such as high verbal comprehension, artistic talent, or leadership, many of which are difficult to assess objectively and quantitatively.

Disability

This criteria is much more straight-forward.  2E students must have an officially diagnosed disability.  While the majority of 2E students are diagnosed with learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia) and/or ADHD, other disabilities may include physical disabilities, auditory processing disorder, autism, and many others.

Currently, estimates suggest there are around 300,000 to 350,000 2E students in the United States.  Of students 18 years old and under, that is only about 0.5% of the population.  Very rare territory!

How to Evaluate for 2E

When I conduct an evaluation for a potential 2E student, I typically provide a full neuropsychological evaluation.  This type of evaluation allows me to establish one’s IQ (giftedness) and confirm or rule out any diagnosable conditions (disability).  Upon completion of the evaluation, the individual will know whether he or she meets the criteria for 2E.

However, it is important to note that an IQ is not required to be considered 2E.  And there is also no universally accepted IQ that would suggest one is either gifted or not.  So, often times, an IQ test is just a guideline when considering if one is gifted.  Consequently, other qualitative data must be taken into consideration, including the child's extracurricular achievements, classroom and/or home observations, and parent/teacher input.

Characteristics of 2E Students

While every student is unique, including both 2E and non-2E students, there are certain traits that are common among 2E students.  Furthermore, by nature of their abilities, 2E students often experience strengths and limitations.  Among the common ones are:

Strengths

• Problem-solving skills

• Critical-thinking skills

• Strong verbal comprehension/voacbulary

• Curious learners

• Ability to concentrate when interested

• Creative imagination

Limitations

• Poor organization

• Difficulty with time management

• Emotion dysregulation

• Decreased self-esteem

• Behavioral problems

• Low grades

Obviously, this is a generalization of a large population and certainly does not apply to all 2E students.  But identifying strengths and limitations of any student is a great step when considering the best educational environment for that particular student.  And 2E learners are no different.

The School Environment for 2E Students

Whether public or private, there are schools and school programs available to serve 2E students.  2E students often thrive in environments that allow for collaboration, creativity, and hands-on experience rather than classroom lecture and rote memorization.  It's not surprise that Montessori caters to such students.  Additionally, many private schools now specialize in providing services for 2E students.  The two important factors when considering a school environment for a 2E child are:

1.  Challenging curriculum

2.  Support for disabilities

When challenged cognitively and academically and given proper support, 2E children can excel and grow by leaps and bounds.

If you think your child is gifted but may be experiencing an underlying condition that inhibits his or her potential, then you may consider an evaluation for Twice Exceptional.