Supporting Gifted Learners’ Emotional Growth: Applying Dialectical Behavior Skills in the Classroom

Emotional challenges like perfectionism, heightened sensitivity, and asynchronous development can significantly impact both the academic performance and personal growth of gifted learners. This proposal explores the integration of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) strategies, specifically Wise Mind and Distress Tolerance, into classroom settings to build emotional resilience. School counselors play a key role in supporting teachers as they implement these DBT skills to help students better navigate emotional challenges and academic pressures. Research has shown that DBT interventions can reduce anxiety and increase academic self-esteem, ultimately fostering emotional well-being, resilience, and academic success, empowering gifted students to reach their full potential.