The term “twice-exceptional” or “2e” is used to describe intellectually gifted students who also have co-occurring challenges, such as neurological, social-emotional or learning differences or disabilities.
Because gifts and challenges can mask each other and interact in unexpected ways, 2e students often go unrecognized or misidentified, leading to inappropriate placements, inadequate support, and unmet needs. This can cause significant stress and surprising behaviors -- such as acting up, underachieving, or shutting down.