Parallel Session Proceedings »
3.2.7 Training Psychologists on Giftedness: A Brazilian Experience
Brazilians has many challenges in the giftedness field. The lack of professional development training is one of them and might be a significant factor impacting the services offered to the gifted individuals. Some consequences are the problems regarding the gifted identification influenced by misconceptions and negative stereotypes what results on a considerable number of nonidentified gifted and also limited programs or services that consider their needs. Psychologists, therapists or counselors are a group of professionals that should be prepared to better serve this population. Recent literature has emphasized the importance of psychosocial variables on achievement and talent development. This work aimed to present an experience of a professional development training for psychologists with a focus on the learning of giftedness and talent development process. It consisted in a seven-hour training course for practitioners who wanted to learn how to better serve their gifted clients, identify these individuals or address their specific needs. Conceptions and definitions, myths and characteristics of gifted people, and national legislation that support educational service for gifted students were some of the topics discussed. Case-studies were used to explore the theory and practice connection and offer an opportunity to share experiences and doubts on the theme. Besides the learning, the training was an opportunity to strengthens the network of professionals interested in the field.