The Relationship Between Gifted Children and Pets
It has been stated that pets can lower cortisol levels and support social relationships in gifted children.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Songül Derin, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, evaluated the effects of pets on gifted and high-potential children. It was stated that the bond established with animals reduces stress by lowering cortisol levels and strengthens social relationships, but this situation may not yield the same result for every child.
Signs of Giftedness
Strong memory, fast learning, advanced problem-solving skills, intense curiosity, and creative thinking are among the signs of giftedness.
However, not every gifted child displays all of these characteristics in the same way, and children's emotional needs can vary.
A Non-Judgmental Relationship Space
One of the most important features of pets for children is that this relationship is not based on academic success or social performance.
Since pets like dogs or cats are unconcerned with a child's grades or intelligence level, they provide a comfortable environment for a child who feels different.
Social Bridge and Communication
Animals can act as a social bridge for some children, facilitating communication with other peers, for example, when going to the park with a dog.
Living with an animal enables children to take into account the needs of other living things and to notice nonverbal communication by observing body language.
Effect on Cortisol and Stress
It is stated that interaction with dogs, in particular, may be linked to changes in certain physiological indicators related to stress and can lower cortisol levels.
Nevertheless, it is emphasized that pets should not be seen as a direct therapy tool or a formula that solves every psychological problem.
Potential Risks and Sensitivities
Not every child may enjoy living with animals; for children with sensitivities to fur, odors, or sounds, animals can become a source of stress.
Additionally, experts warn that situations such as the illness of an animal can create intense feelings of guilt in perfectionistic children.