The co-occurrence of intellectual giftedness and Autism Spectrum Disorders: A literature review

This systematic literature review explored the state of the art concerning the theoretical and empirical knowledge of the twice-exceptionality of Intellectual Giftedness and Autism Spectrum Disorders (IG + ASD)(3), in relation to diagnostic and assessment issues. After searching and examining publications in peer-reviewed journals and dissertations, we encountered a variety of methodologies being used. The results showed the absence, until now, of theoretical conceptualisations of the phenomenon IG + ASD. Nevertheless, this contribution revealed some converging tendencies concerning both personal characteristics and diagnostic and assessment issues, between publications with and without Systematic Identification Measures (SIM). Some findings, like the 'superior non-verbal abilities', are discussed in relation to (controversial) image formation of IG and IG + ASD. Altogether, the results indicated the need for an in-depth exploration and conceptualisation of the phenomenon IG + ASD. Meanwhile, future research should also address the practical psychological-educational need for both classification-based and needs-based assessment procedures, regarding students with (suspicion of) IG + ASD. (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.