Motivation and Gifted Adolescents

The motivation of gifted adolescents is of concern to their teachers and parents, especially in relation to the development of potential into performance. There are multiple definitions of motivation, and while research in this area is generally applicable to all learners, there are unique characteristics and situations involving gifted adolescents that make the investigation of their motivation more complex. This chapter considers the motivation of gifted adolescents from a talent development perspective, particularly the Talent Development in Achievement Domains (TAD) framework. While incorporating insights from classic motivation theories, the emphasis is on intrinsic forms of motivation, particularly aspects of self-determination theory that base recommendations for motivation practices on adolescents&s; needs for competence, autonomy, and relatedness. Understanding of equity issues related to motivation, as well as concerns related to artificial intelligence (pros and cons), are addressed. The chapter ends with recommendations for parents and teachers on how to support gifted adolescents in order to facilitate their motivation, and offers several questions for discussion.