The current meta-analysis compares the selfconcepts and perceived competencies of gifted and non-gifted students. Using meta-analytic methods to synthesise the results of 40 studies, we found that gifted students scored significantly higher than non-gifted students on measures of academic and behavioural perceived competence, as well as global self-concept. Gifted students scored significantly lower than non-gifted students on measures of appearance and athletic perceived competence. Significant heterogeneity was found in the extent to which gifted and non-gifted students' scores differed in the academic and global domains. Moderator variables such as participant grade level, method of gifted designation and publication year accounted for systematic differences in these domains. Gifted students' appearance and athletic perceived competencies may benefit from specific intervention, but their beliefs in other areas remain positive.

Epilepsy is one of the most frequently diagnosed neurological disorders among children. Epilepsy is continuously linked with academic underachievement and social challenges. Despite the implications that these difficulties have for a child's educational success, little is known of how children with epilepsy experience school. Understanding how to best support and accommodate these children can contribute to their positive adaptation and quality of life. The purpose of this phenomenological study by Jillian Roberts and Cheryl Whiting of the University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, is to understand the school experiences of children with epilepsy. Data was gathered through open-ended, semi-structured interviews. The caregivers' narratives were transcribed and analysed to elicit the essential experiences of school children with epilepsy. Five categories were elicited from the families' narratives: (1) health-related issues, (2) family coping, (3) academic experience, (4) social belonging, and (5) awareness. This information will be particularly useful for teachers and allied professionals serving the needs of children with epilepsy -as well as those with other chronic health conditions.

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The purpose of this article is to explore the effects of radiofrequency ablation (RFA), an investigational treatment for breast cancer, on the quality of life of elderly women. For this descriptive phenomenological study, the authors interviewed 12 White women (aged 60-81 years) 4 months to 1 year after treatment and analyzed these interviews for common themes. They asked questions regarding the lived experience of RFA treatment and its effects on quality of life. Analyses focused on the effects of deciding to have the RFA treatment and the treatment itself. They found quality of life improved because the women felt empowered by (a) their decision to have the procedure, (b) knowing that the procedure might kill the tumor, (c) and feeling that they were contributing to cancer research. The level of support received from the medical team, family and friends, and other cancer survivors also improved participant quality of life.

Career counselors frequently encounter clients who are at high risk for career and life development difficulties. Research suggests there is a connection between resiliency and successful career development in high‐risk clients. Many high‐risk individuals have poor decision‐making skills and lack motivation to succeed in life and career development. This article describes a career resiliency framework in which career resiliency is best understood within the context of psychological resiliency. Specifically, this article explicates how career counseling from a resiliency theory perspective may promote successful career development for populations dealing with multiple barriers.