New Study of the Mathematically Precocious Uncovers Antecedents for the Development of Math-Science

February 12, 2007

Along with mathematical skills, having high levels of spatial ability and curiosity form what researchers call a "particularly promising aptitude complex" that suggests you might have great potential for developing scientific expertise as well as a commitment to scientific pursuits.

So said David Lubinski and Camilla Persson Bendow, both of Vanderbilt University. The results of their long-term work appeared in the December 2006 issue of Perspectives on Psychological Science.

In addition, said the researchers, extraordinary scientific accomplishments require an extraordinary commitment in and outside school. While it's true, according to the research, that more men then women work in mathematics and science, the researchers concluded that by their mid-30's, most people appeared to be happy with their "life choices and viewed themselves as equally successful."

The unconventional conclusion of the report was that, given the importance of the mathematical sciences in today's culture, when mathematically gifted individuals choose to pursue careers outside engineering and the physical sciences, it should be seen as contribution to society, and not as a loss of talent.