Researchers have uncovered the reason for this difference in how difficulty is interpreted, and it is simply this: more often than not, bright girls believe that their abilities are innate and unchangeable, while bright boys believe that they can develop ability through effort and practice. How do girls and boys develop these different views? Most likely, it has to do with the kinds of feedback we get from parents and teachers as young children. Girls, who develop self-control earlier and are better able to follow instructions, are often praised for their goodness. When we do well in school, we are told that we are so smart, so clever, or such a good student. This kind of praise implies that traits like smartness, cleverness, and goodness are qualities you either have or you dont. Boys, on the other hand, are a handful. Just trying to get boys to sit still and pay attention is a real challenge for any parent or teacher. As a result, boys are given a lot more feedback that emphasizes effort (e.g., If you would just pay attention you could learn this, If you would just try a little harder you could get it right.) The net result: When learning something new is truly difficult, girls take it as sign that they arent good and smart, and boys take it as a sign to pay attention and try harder. We continue to carry these beliefs, often unconsciously, around with us throughout our lives. And because bright girls are particularly likely to see their abilities as innate and unchangeable, they grow up to be women who are far too hard on themselves--women who will prematurely conclude that they dont have what it takes to succeed in a particular arena, and give up way too soon.
Posted on: Sun, 29 Jun 2014 09:50:05 +0000
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