While established models of giftedness often focus more on objective talent identification and treat psychological factors (like self-concept) as facilitating catalysts, this study argues for a fundamentally different approach. We propose that the subjective dimension—specifically whether an individual perceives their talent as an innate, personal trait—is a primary mechanism of realization. Central to this argument is the claim that a positive self-concept is not just a facilitating factor, but a foundational prerequisite that allows for the emergence of this "self-perceived giftedness." Through a survey of Hong Kong university students, this research examines the relationship between self-concept, autonomy, and identity. Findings show that childhood self-perceived giftedness is significantly correlated with current self-evaluations. Crucially, a significant negative correlation was found between "dictated development"—characterized by highly planned, external pressure to achieve—and how individuals retrospectively evaluated their innate talent during childhood. This indicates that structured external pushing effectively stifles the early internal recognition of being gifted. We argue that developmental autonomy is essential for establishing a healthy self-concept. While parental or educational dictation may indeed enhance objective skills, it simultaneously causes students to attribute success to external manufacture. This dissociation weakens the "gifted identity," as abilities are viewed as products of compliance rather than inborn talent. Our pilot data suggests that protecting a child's agency is more critical than the external "pushing" of potential. We conclude that gifted education should prioritize self-directed exploration to ensure potential is authentically internalized as a core part of the self.

Authors:
Hing Weng Eric Tsang, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
Ho Man Tang, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

About the Presenter(s)
TSANG Hing Weng Eric is the Programme Director for Acting for Global Screen at Hong Kong Baptist University. He is a film director whose work has been screened at the Sundance and Busan film festivals.

Tang Ho Man, Alex is a lecturer at the School of Journalism and Communication, The Chinese University of Hong Kong. He has been teaching new media and creativity for 15 years in Universities.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hingwengerictsang

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Hing-Weng-Eric-Tsang

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