Olfactory processing in gifted and non-gifted children: assessing the sniffin' sticks olfactory test for threshold,...

Intelligence encompasses learning, knowledge application, and problem-solving. Although gifted children typically exhibit high IQ scores, their olfactory abilities have been understudied despite established neuroanatomical links between olfactory processing and intelligence-related brain regions. This study addresses this gap by examining whether gifted children demonstrate superior olfactory function compared with typically developing peers.

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Istanbul with 102 children aged 8-11 years, comprising gifted children (IQ > 130) and typically developing controls. Olfactory performance was assessed using the standardized Sniffin' Sticks test, measuring odor threshold, odor discrimination, and odor identification. Group comparisons were performed overall and stratified by gender.

Gifted children exhibited superior overall olfactory detection compared with typically developing children. Among males, gifted participants had higher odor threshold scores than typically developing males. Among females, gifted participants showed higher odor threshold, direct odor identification, odor identification, and total Sniffin' Sticks scores than their typically developing counterparts.

Findings indicate a positive association between intelligence and olfactory function in childhood. Enhanced olfactory abilities in gifted children-observed across threshold, identification, and composite Sniffin' Sticks indices-may reflect broader advantages in cognitive processing linked to high intellectual functioning. Further research should elucidate underlying neural mechanisms and developmental implications.