Skip to content

When we praise children for their intelligence, we tell…

“When we praise children for their intelligence, we tell them that this is the name of the game: Look smart; don't risk making mistakes.” quote by Carol S. Dweck
Download Open image
“When we praise children for their intelligence, we tell them that this is the name of the game: Look smart; don't risk making mistakes.”

Carol S. Dweck

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Praising intelligence encourages a fixed mindset, making children avoid challenges to protect self‑image.

In simple terms: Focusing on smarts limits growth.

Key Takeaway

Promote effort over innate ability.

Themes

mindset learning confidence

Mood

concerned reflective

Type

advice psychology

When to use this quote

  • school
  • parenting
  • coaching

Key Concepts

growth mindset self‑efficacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you reward effort instead of talent?
  • What risks arise from labeling kids smart?
A Different Perspective

May discourage resilience when mistakes happen.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Carol S. Dweck

Explore all 135 Carol S. Dweck quotes

More Child quotes

Browse all 10,700 Child quotes