Social and Emotional Factors Affecting the Mental Health of Gifted Students with ADHD: A Systematic Review

Gifted students with neurological differences such as ADHD, dyslexia, and autism, often referred to as twice exceptional (2e), face unique challenges and are at increased risk for mental health difficulties. This systematic review focuses specifically on twice-exceptional students with ADHD, an understudied group, to examine the socio-emotional factors impacting their mental health. Using PRISMA guidelines, seven studies were identified from EBSCO, ProQuest, and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses and appraised using JBI checklists. Findings revealed challenges in forming and maintaining peer relationships and highlighted that giftedness, when combined with ADHD, may exacerbate risks for low self-esteem and social difficulties.