Mindset and beliefs about challenge
When presented with a challenge, a person with a fixed mindset may first see a potential threat. Before deciding to take on a challenge, a fixed mindset person may deliberate (consciously or subconsciously) about the following:
On the other hand, when faced with a challenge a person with a growth mindset may first see an opportunity. In deciding to take on a challenge, a growth mindset person may deliberate about the following:
- Will I be able to accomplish this task and make it look like it wasn't hard for me?
- If I fail at this challenge will other people be notice?
- If I fail at this challenge will I have a good excuse for why I did not succeed?
- Is there some way I can avoid this challenge if there is a chance I could fail?
On the other hand, when faced with a challenge a person with a growth mindset may first see an opportunity. In deciding to take on a challenge, a growth mindset person may deliberate about the following:
- Do I have the skill sets necessary to meet this challenge or will I need to develop the skills needed?
- How can I grow cognitively, academically, or emotionally by meeting this challenge?
- What resources can I draw on to meet this challenge?
- Will I have the time to put in the effort necessary to meet this challenge?
Supporting a growth mindset interpretation of challenge
To encourage a growth mindset, provide supportive comments or ask the following questions when your child is successful:
- This looks like it will be a real challenge. Great. You have a chance to learn, practice using strategies, and even grow your brain.
- I know this looks like it will be too hard, but you can do it. You have all the skills you need to be successful. You just need to develop a strategy and then use your skills to do the work.
- You don't believe you can to this yet, but I believe you can. How can I support you? Do you want to talk about the challenge with me?
References
Dweck, Carol S. (2008) Mindset: The new psychology of success. Ballantine Books, NY.
Lightsey, Richard. (1999). Albert Bandura and the Exercise of Self-Efficacy. Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy. 13:2 pp 158-166.
Usher, Ellen L., Pajares, Frank. (2008). Sources of Self-efficacy in school: Critical review of the literature and future directions. Review of Educational Research. 78:4 pp 751-796.
Lightsey, Richard. (1999). Albert Bandura and the Exercise of Self-Efficacy. Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy. 13:2 pp 158-166.
Usher, Ellen L., Pajares, Frank. (2008). Sources of Self-efficacy in school: Critical review of the literature and future directions. Review of Educational Research. 78:4 pp 751-796.