The quote highlights a common issue faced by highly intelligent children: they often stop putting effort into their work due to excessive praise. This praise can create an environment where these children feel that being seen as brilliant is more desirable than making mistakes or struggling, which in turn hinders their intrinsic motivation and willingness to take risks.
Delving deeper, the quote underscores a broader psychological concept known as fixed versus growth mindsets. According to this theory, individuals with a fixed mindset believe their abilities are static traits, and they strive to validate these innate talents by avoiding challenges that might expose potential weaknesses or failures. On the other hand, those with a growth mindset view abilities as qualities that can be developed through dedication and hard work. By praising children solely for being smart rather than for their effort and perseverance, parents and educators inadvertently foster a fixed mindset, which can limit personal development and resilience in the face of obstacles.
Carol S. Dweck is a renowned psychologist who has made significant contributions to our understanding of motivation, personality, and development through her research on mindsets. Her work emphasizes the importance of fostering a growth mindset in children and adults alike, encouraging them to embrace challenges and view failures as opportunities for learning and improvement.
