Childhood Traits and Experiences of Eminent Women

Based on earlier research on eminent men by Walberg (1981) and others, we used a biographical rating form to assess the early traits, conditions, and experiences of 256 eminent women identified by historians, other scholars, and distinguished practitioners in such fields as music, politics, science, and the visual arts. Between 1 and 6 biographical writings were consulted to complete the ratings concerning the first 13 years of life. The results generally replicate previous studies: Girls, who were to become eminent, were intelligent, hardworking, and persevering. Many had been encouraged by their parents, teachers, and others. Given the consistency of findings on childhood and youth conditions that make for adult eminence, it is worth thinking carefully about the educational implications. Yet, for several reasons, the research by us and others cannot be considered sufficiently definitive for prescribing child-rearing practices for adult eminence.