CPAH – Heráclito Center for Research and Analysis
Research Line: Genetics of Intelligence and Cognitive Phenomenology
Lead Researcher: Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela Rodrigues

Introduction

This report is part of the initiatives of the Genetic Intelligence Project (GIP), aimed at investigating the occurrence of the déjà vu phenomenon in individuals with high cognitive abilities, taking into account their IQ range and the presence or absence of twice exceptionality.

Sample and Methodology

Responses from 50 participants were analyzed, all members of the Gifted Debate group, each with an IQ above 130. Data collection was concluded upon reaching this number, which had been previously established as statistically adequate for an initial sample. Data were obtained through a structured form with objective questions regarding the déjà vu experience, its frequency, estimated IQ range, and the presence of neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD, ASD, and dyslexia.

Results

• 100% of participants reported having experienced déjà vu at least once.
• Most indicated they had experienced the phenomenon more than 10 times.
• The distribution by IQ range was concentrated between 136 and 145, with lower representation in the upper extreme ranges (above 145).
• Regarding twice exceptionality, the sample included individuals both with and without such conditions.

Proportional Analysis

Although all participants reported experiencing déjà vu, the proportion remained equally high across all IQ ranges, including those with profound giftedness (IQ above 145). However, considering the lower numerical representation of this subgroup, a relatively lower occurrence may be observed, which warrants further investigation with broader and more balanced samples.

Regarding twice exceptionality, no significant statistical difference was observed in the occurrence of déjà vu between the groups “with” and “without” neurodivergent conditions. Both groups reported the experience in a uniform manner, suggesting that this phenomenon may not be directly correlated with conditions such as ADHD or ASD, at least within the high-ability population.

Graphs

The following graphs illustrate the distribution of the sample by IQ range, presence of twice exceptionality, and the self-reported frequency of déjà vu.

Ethical Considerations

This is an exclusively scientific and statistical study. No personal or identifiable information was collected. All data were anonymized and processed in full compliance with the Brazilian General Data Protection Law (LGPD) and the European Union General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). CPAH, operating within both European and Brazilian jurisdictions, ensures strict ethical standards in data handling and confidentiality throughout all stages of the project.