Fostering Growth Mindset: Understanding the Impact of Intelligence Praise vs. Effort Praise

According to a recent study, a group of kids were given a few problem sets and the kids who excelled at them were given an intelligence-praise like – you are so smart you are so talented. And then the rest were given an effort-praise like- you tried so hard, you really persisted, that’s fantastic.

Later the same set of problems were repeated to the kids and this time the results were absolutely astonishing. The scientists figured out that the kids who received intelligence praise, their performance at the problems reduced and the kids who were given effort praise their performance improved remarkably.

Intelligence praise and effort praise are two distinct forms of praising individuals, particularly in educational or developmental contexts. These types of praise can significantly impact a person’s mind set, motivation, and approach to challenges. Let’s explore the differences between intelligence praise and effort praise:

Intelligence Praise emphasises a person’s inherent or fixed qualities, such as intelligence or talent.

Example: “You’re so smart,” or “You’re a natural at this.”

Its Impact being, while it may provide immediate positive reinforcement, intelligence praise can lead to a fixed mindset. Individuals praised for intelligence might develop a fear of failure, as they perceive challenges as a reflection of their inherent abilities.

Effort Praise, on the other hand, highlights the individual’s hard work, perseverance, and strategies employed to achieve a goal.

Example: “You worked really hard on this,” or “I can see you put a lot of effort into it.”

Its impact apparently encourages a growth mindset, where individuals believe that their abilities can be developed through dedication and effort. It fosters resilience and a willingness to take on challenges.

However there are certain separate key effects of both over an individual:

Mindset Development:

Intelligence praise tends to foster a fixed mindset, where individuals believe their abilities are static and unchangeable.

Effort praise promotes a growth mindset, encouraging individuals to see challenges as opportunities for learning and improvement.

Response to Challenges:

Those accustomed to intelligence praise may avoid challenges to maintain the perception of being naturally talented.

Individuals praised for effort are more likely to embrace challenges, viewing them as a chance to grow and enhance their skills.

Perception of Failure:

Intelligence praise can lead to a fear of failure, as failure may be seen as a direct reflection of one’s intelligence.

Effort praise helps individuals perceive failure as a natural part of the learning process, emphasising the importance of resilience and continued effort.

Motivation:

Intelligence praise may undermine motivation when faced with difficult tasks, as individuals may fear exposing their perceived lack of inherent ability.

Effort praise enhances motivation, as individuals understand that their hard work contributes to their success.

In summary, while both forms of praise aim to boost confidence and motivation, effort praise has been associated with more positive outcomes in fostering a resilient and growth-oriented mind set. Encouraging the value of effort and perseverance can contribute to individuals approaching challenges with a positive and determined attitude.