When Development Isn’t Linear — Rethinking Developmental Theories Through Giftedness

  • Room: FWCC 202 A
  • Session Number: 8392
Saturday,July 04, 2026:1:30 PM -2:45 PM

Speaker(s)

Lauren Montgomery Wallman
Educator and Author

Description

This presentation explores the developmental theories of Rudolf Steiner and Erik Erikson through the lens of giftedness and lived experience. While Erikson’s psychosocial stages emphasize identity formation through crisis, Steiner’s model highlights spiritual and developmental rhythms across the lifespan. How do these frameworks hold up when applied to highly intelligent individuals whose cognitive, emotional, and existential development often diverges from the norm? Drawing from research, classroom experience, and personal narrative, this session examines where these theories converge, where they fall short, and how gifted adults may experience developmental milestones differently. The discussion invites participants to consider stage-based models and reflect on how giftedness and adversity shape the lifelong process of becoming.


Track(s)