2374: Raising Well-Adjusted, Motivated Children: 3 Reasons to Praise the "Process" not the "Person" by Jay & Heather Harrington
Nov 8, 2024
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Praising children for their effort rather than their innate abilities is crucial for fostering resilience and a growth mindset. The hosts discuss how this approach, known as 'process praise,' helps kids prioritize meaning over fleeting happiness. They emphasize that recognizing the effort encourages intrinsic motivation, allowing children to navigate challenges confidently. This discussion invites parents to reevaluate their praise strategies, urging them to celebrate the journey of learning instead of just the results.
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Quick takeaways
Praising children for their effort rather than their innate abilities fosters a growth mindset and intrinsic motivation for lifelong learning.
Emphasizing the importance of meaningful experiences helps children understand that true fulfillment often surpasses immediate happiness.
Deep dives
The Importance of Process Praise
Process praise emphasizes the significance of recognizing effort and strategies over inherent abilities. This type of feedback encourages children to focus on their work ethic, fostering a mindset that values hard work and determination. For example, a child may learn the importance of practice by being praised for their dedication rather than simply being labeled as 'smart' for achieving a goal. By shifting attention from innate qualities to the processes that lead to success, children develop resilience and a better understanding of what drives achievement.
Cultivating a Growth Mindset
Encouraging a growth mindset involves teaching kids that their abilities can grow through dedication and effort. Research by Carol Dweck illustrates that children who receive process praise are more inclined to take on challenges and pursue learning opportunities. For instance, when children praised for their work ethic opted for more difficult math puzzles, they demonstrated a desire to extend their skills rather than play it safe. This mindset fosters a love for learning and helps them navigate future challenges more effectively.
Intrinsic Motivation and Meaning Over Happiness
Intrinsic motivation stems from personal enjoyment and a genuine desire to learn, rather than external rewards. Process praise that resonates with a child's autonomy can enhance this internal drive, encouraging them to engage deeply with activities. It's essential to convey that long-term fulfillment often comes from meaningful experiences, even if those are challenging or less enjoyable in the moment. Ultimately, nurturing intrinsic motivation helps children understand that life is not solely about immediate happiness, but rather about pursuing meaningful goals.
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Episode 2374:
Jay and Heather Harrington highlight the importance of praising children for their effort rather than innate abilities. Drawing from research, they explain how "process praise" fosters a growth mindset, intrinsic motivation, and helps kids prioritize meaning over happiness. This approach encourages long-term resilience, helping children navigate challenges without over-relying on external validation.