Final answer:
Gifted individuals typically have an IQ of 130 or higher, representing the top 2% of the population. Lewis Terman's study debunked myths about highly intelligent individuals being maladjusted and physically weak. Mensa is an organization for those with an IQ in the top 2%.
Step-by-step explanation:
People who are considered gifted generally have a high general intelligence, or an IQ of 130 or higher. This classification is on the higher end of the IQ scale and represents approximately 2% of the population. The concept of giftedness was studied extensively by Lewis Terman, who in 1921 began a longitudinal study of over 1500 children with IQs over 135. His findings, published in subsequent years, showed that these children grew into well-adjusted and successful adults, which countered the once popular belief that highly intelligent individuals were maladjusted. Further, his study indicated that they were above average in physical build and attractiveness, debunking the myth that intelligent people were physically 'weak'. Additionally, organizations such as Mensa require members to have an IQ in the top 2% of the population.