Final answer:
Giftedness and mental illness are not linked, despite a common misconception.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the worst misconceptions of the field of gifted education is the idea that giftedness and mental illness are linked. This misconception assumes that gifted students are more prone to mental illness, which is not supported by research. Giftedness is not a causative factor for mental health issues, although gifted individuals may experience unique challenges and heightened sensitivities.