Self-concept and mathematical talent: A comparative study with adolescents in Paraguay

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Published: 2026-05-04
DOI: https://doi.org/10.11600/rlcsnj.24.2.6931
Keywords:
Mathematical talent, self-concept, general education, cluster analysis

Main Article Content

Alexandra Vuyk, Ph. D.
Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic University, Paraguay
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3963-8522
Maureen Montanía, Mg.
Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic University, Paraguay
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3552-0124

Abstract

Gaps remain in understanding how self-concept dimensions vary between talented adolescents and general education students. This study examines differences in self-concept dimensions (academic/
occupational, social, family, physical, and emotional) among 253 Paraguayan adolescents with mathematical
talent enrolled in a mathematics enrichment program and general education students. A descriptive-comparative design was employed, using the AF5 instrument to assess self-concept, later analyzed through cluster analysis. Results showed that mathematically talented students demonstrated
higher academic and emotional self-concept, while General Education students scored higher in the family dimension. The cluster analysis identified four distinct self-concept profiles. These findings highlight the importance of educational and socioemotional contexts for the holistic development of self-concept in mathematically talented students.

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Article Details

Issue

Vol. 24 No. 2: mayo - agosto de 2026

Section

Segunda Sección: Estudios e Investigaciones
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Author Biographies

Alexandra Vuyk, Ph. D., Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic University, Paraguay

PhD and Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, University of Kansas. Master’s degree in Educational Sciences (Specialization: Giftedness, Talent, and Creativity). Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Philosophy, Emporia State University. Director of Aikumby Center for High Ability and Creativity. Researcher with the Multidisciplinary Organization for the Support of Teachers and Students. Faculty member at Universidad Católica Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. ORCID: 0000-0003-3963-8522. H5-index: 10. Email: alexandra.vuyk@uc.edu.py

Maureen Montanía, Mg., Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic University, Paraguay

MSc in Clinical and Health Psychology, Birkbeck, University of London. Degree in Psychology (Educational concentration), Catholic University Our Lady of the Assumption. Laboratory Coordinator at Aikumby Center for High Abilities and Creativity. Researcher at the Multidisciplinary Organization for Support to Teachers and Students. Lecturer at the Catholic University Our Lady of the Assumption. ORCID: 0000-0002-3552-0124. H5-index: 5. Email: maureen.montania@uc.edu.py

How to Cite

Vuyk, A., & Montanía, M. (2026). Self-concept and mathematical talent: A comparative study with adolescents in Paraguay. Revista Latinoamericana De Ciencias Sociales, Niñez Y Juventud , 24(2), 1-31. https://doi.org/10.11600/rlcsnj.24.2.6931

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