Overexcitability and Perfectionism: A Comparative Study of Mathematically and Scientifically Talented, Verbally Talented, and Regular Students

This study investigates overexcitabilities (OEs) and perfectionism traits among 641 Taiwanese high school students, including 207 mathematically and scientifically talented students (MSTS), 187 verbally talented students (VTS), and 247 regular students (RS). Using the ME III and Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (MPS), findings revealed that MSTS and VTS scored significantly higher in intellectual and imaginational OEs, while RS reported higher parental criticism. Emotional OE correlated with concern over mistakes and doubts about actions. Intellectual OE positively correlated with personal standards and negatively correlated with parental criticism. The study highlights the need for tailored support to foster gifted students' psychological well-being.