Características e dinâmica da família de adolescentes talentosos

The purpose of this study was to describe family characteristics and dynamics of talented adolescents. Forty-two adolescents between 12 and 18 years old who attended a program for gifted students and their family participated in the data collection. A family characteristics questionnaire and the Parent Success Indicator Inventory, children's and parents' versions were used as instruments. The results indicated that more than half of the families with talented adolescents had a traditional figure: spouses with children born of their own conjugal union. These families prioritized education and the development of their children's talents. The family dynamics involved a wide range of routine and leisure activities, among which stand out those related to the rest, to school, watching television and movies and visiting relatives. Parents evaluated their parental performance in a more positive way when comparing to the adolescents considering all the categories measured by the PSI: communication, use of time, teaching, frustration, satisfaction, and information needs. The results of this study highlight the relevant role of the family regarding talent development.