General developmental stage theory itself is briefly summarized, and the literature is reviewed. Suitable modifications of developmental stage theory for gifted children are briefly considered. Three paramount developmental issues for educators of the gifted are examined. (DLS)

Assigned drawings of 217 children (ages 4, 6, 8, and 10) were evaluated for both developmental and ability-related differences. Age-related trends were found in the ability to render perspective with talented children making flexible and elaborate use of perspectival abilities. Artistic abilities other than perspective appeared to be less…

Examines six sets of data on giftedness and creativity, finding little evidence for the belief that creativity in adults is mirrored in children. Questions whether children are creative, and whether creativity can be taught. Discusses creation of transitional objects; gaps, novelty, curiosity, and exploration; puberty as a developmental marker;…

The paper examines the early development of a highly talented child artist in light of three theories of graphic development in children: (1) drawing development is a search for increasingly satisfying solutions to graphic problems that proceeds along a stage-like path; (2) gifted children aspiring to be artists carefully imitate their culture's…

Four papers address issues of identification, secondary program alternatives, guidance to develop creativity, and needed research in gifted education. In the first paper, "Some Creative Dimensions to the Issue of Identification," E. Torrance analyzes the problem of idntifying and cultivating creative giftedness in an unfavorable national climate.…

An investigation was made of the relationships between creativity and factors associated with the aging process of retired and current artists over the age of 65. Its focus was to determine differences among three groups of creative people--continuing artists, retired artists, and new artists--in terms of their views of how aging affects…