Abstract
Presented paper is based on results of two multiple-case studies (originally a part of author‘s dissertation project) that are focused on development of gifted children and adolescents. The analysis showed that manifestations of their uniqueness or more specifically the meanings these manifestations acquired in social context played an important role in structuring their development.
Their uniqueness was usually constructed as a promise of future extraordinary achievements. This was related to supportive nurturing practices but sometimes led to excessive expectations and pressures aimed at immediate peak performance.
As a result, the individual motivation and long-term development of achievement were hindered; in some cases to the point of withdrawal from the domain. The results are introduced from a phenomenological point of view – the main goal is to provide an insight into the lived experience of examined gifted children and adolescents and also people that influenced their development.