

#4400
Mentioned in 12 episodes
The Self-Driven Child
The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives
Book • 2018
This book combines insights from clinical practice, educational coaching, and cutting-edge brain science to address the chronic stress and lack of motivation many children face.
Stixrud and Johnson argue that giving children more control over their lives is crucial for their development, as it enhances their motivation, resilience, and overall well-being.
The authors provide practical advice on how parents can act as consultants rather than controllers, helping children develop inner drive and intrinsic motivation through autonomy, competence, and relatedness.
The book also discusses the negative effects of excessive parental control and external motivators, and offers actionable steps for parents to implement in their daily lives.
Stixrud and Johnson argue that giving children more control over their lives is crucial for their development, as it enhances their motivation, resilience, and overall well-being.
The authors provide practical advice on how parents can act as consultants rather than controllers, helping children develop inner drive and intrinsic motivation through autonomy, competence, and relatedness.
The book also discusses the negative effects of excessive parental control and external motivators, and offers actionable steps for parents to implement in their daily lives.
Mentioned by





















Mentioned in 12 episodes
Mentioned by Aliza Pressman as an expert on the adolescent brain and author of several books on parenting.

151 snips
How to Raise Self-Driven Children with Dr. William Stixrud
Mentioned by Ginny Yurich as providing the premise that lack of control is one of the most anxiety producing things that can happen to someone.

1KHO 489: Why Modern Childhood Is Failing Kids' Bodies and Brains | Angela Hanscom, Balanced and Barefoot
Mentioned by Ned Johnson as a book he co-authored with Dr. William Stixrud, offering insights into raising self-driven children.

The SAT, ACT, and Other Four-Letter Words: What Do You Say When Your Kid's Scores are Low?
Mentioned by
Ryan Holiday during an interview, referencing an idea from Dr. Ross Green about people doing well when they can.


Elliot Ackerman on Writing, Military Service, and Polarization | People Do Well When They Can
Mentioned by Misty as a book that emphasizes the importance of a sense of control.

The Power of Incompletion: Why Leaving Things Unfinished Can Actually Boost Creativity and Well-being
Mentioned by
Ryan Holiday when discussing the challenges of parenting and the importance of empathy.

Daily Dad on How Hard It Is to Be a Kid
Recommended by
Debbie Reber , who has mentioned it frequently due to its research supporting intrinsic motivation.


TPP 209a: Blake Boles Asks Why Are You Still Sending Your Kids to School
Mentioned by
Alyson Schafer as books co-authored by Ned Johnson and Dr. William Stixrud, focusing on raising self-driven children and improving communication with children.


189: The Seven Principles for Raising a Self-Driven Child