Have you ever cheered on a friend during a race, only to see them slow down? It turns out that praising someone for their natural abilities, like saying ‘You’re so smart!’ can actually have a negative impact on their motivation and achievement in math. A recent study suggests that when children are praised for their innate talents or personal traits in relation to math, it may dampen their enthusiasm for the subject and hinder their success over time. Just like cheering on a runner too soon can make them lose focus, premature praise may take away the drive to improve and learn. So instead of solely focusing on innate abilities, it’s important to foster a growth mindset in children by praising their effort, perseverance, and problem-solving skills. By doing so, we can empower them to embrace challenges and develop a lifelong love for math. To dive deeper into this fascinating research, check out the full article!
‘You’re so smart!’ — This encouraging response may actually do more harm than good to children’s math performance, according to a new study. The study found that encouraging children with responses related to their personal traits or innate abilities may dampen their math motivation and achievement over time.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.