We often delight in seeing an A on a test or witnessing our children or team win a game. Expressions of admiration for our children’s looks or talent are common. You have probably heard phrases like, “She’s brilliant,” or “he’s a good-looking young lad,” or “She is such a naturally gifted athlete.”
Such feedback and praise appear harmless, but research suggests otherwise. Celebrating innate ability or talent can lead to a skewed perspective with significant repercussions.

When we heap praise on talent, a child may latch onto this praise as defining a fixed attribute. They might grow up thinking, “I’m smarter than others.”
But the implications extend further. The child learns the expected behavior of a ‘smart’ individual: completing their homework swiftly without exerting significant effort. Everyone admires the A grades and the so-called ‘smart kid’ behind them.

Over time, the notion that being smart equates to achieving outstanding results with minimal effort becomes ingrained. Attempting to learn from mistakes, seeking feedback, or expanding knowledge through concentrated effort are considered unnecessary and reserved for ‘less smart’ kids.

This mindset instills the idea that they should be noticed and lauded for their talent rather than reserving our attention and praise for reasonable efforts. Many bright kids experience few mistakes in their early years and thus start perceiving mistakes as indicative of low intellect or lack of talent rather than valuable learning opportunities.

As the years pass, those with a fixed mindset crave........

© The Saratogian