A preliminary theoretical model for genius.
Vernon M Neppe MD, PhD, FRSSAf, DFAPA, BN&NP, DPM, MMed, Director, Pacific Neuropsychiatric Institute, Seattle, WA (Adj Full Professor, Dept of Psychiatry, St Louis University, St Louis, MO. www.PNI.org; psyche@PNI.org; 206 527 6289
Dr Vernon Neppe hypothesized several new factors that may be relevant not only in exceptional intelligence but in the concept of genius and also prodigies. This is a preliminary theoretical model for genius. This requires far more research
These factors are as follows:
Hypotheses of new factors in intelligence
Current factors that are well established.
g factor general factor implying highly correlative convergent thought.
s factor specific factor less correlative with convergent thought.
This is in addition to these factors. There is a need for consolidation of other elements.
New factors.
c factor creative intelligence; Unique, innovation demonstrated in one of several disciplines; convergent thinking; music, mathematics, science, chess are easier to quantitate than art and literature. It is used above in the context of the U for Unique Creativity.
n factor implying nervous system integration of c and e with g and s. Also involves volitional factors of executive function z,
e factor: ego strength with emotional-cognitive functional combinations.
i factor: intuition-inspiration factor
z factor: zeal, energy, motivation, drive, volition, persistence, pursuit, perseverance (here the E for energy), how much does he want it? a factor: achievement pioneering or redirecting cultural comprehensible skills.
These factors combine into a useful mnemonic making up GENIUSES.
This reflects the qualities that are needed for Genius and how Child Prodigies do not necessarily exhibit the essential E and S.
The MULTISYSTEMS approach to genius and prodigies using the mnemonic Geniuses
GENIUSES
G g factor of intelligence
E: Ego strength / ego-strength / emotional; Normal communication: biopsychofamiliosociocultural;
N nervous system integration of C with G and S factors.
G, E, I, S, C, using z
I Intuition / inspiration elements; nonlocality elements: i factor
U unique creativity c factor. divergence. Originality, imagination; lateral thinking
S s factor: specific aptitudes,
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E energy. relates to z factor, zeal / persistence/ drive/ volition/ ardor/ keenness/ will / motivation/ perseverance.
S: skills manifesting within the cultural fabric.
Neppe VM: Intelligence assessment by history taking in child prodigies with adult achievement—the SCHIQ, in International Society for Intelligence Research Conference Book. Decatur, GA, 2008, p 21