A Qualitative Meta-Analysis of Research into the Underachievement of Gifted Boys

Academic underachievement among children and young people is an area of considerable concern, and it is often linked to particular groups. Two groups that have attracted concern when it comes to underachievement are gifted children and boys. This study examines the intersection between the underachievement of these two groups by examining underachievement among intellectually gifted boys. A meta-analysis of the research literature concerning underachievement in gifted boys was conducted to identify factors that may be associated with this phenomenon. The findings suggest that underachievement in gifted boys may be primarily caused by social-emotional factors, rather than by factors of their educational environment. It is noted that the factors relating to underachievement in gifted students have only been studied in a limited way, and this research addresses part of that gap. Further areas of study - in particular the impact of twice-exceptionality and of bullying on underachievement - are suggested for future study.