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Bright Kids Who Couldn't Care Less  By  cover art

Bright Kids Who Couldn't Care Less

By: Ellen Braaten PhD, Sheryl Sandberg - foreword
Narrated by: Ellen Braaten PhD
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Publisher's summary

“He’s so smart, but he’s no longer interested in school—or any 'offline' activities.”
“She used to love sports, but now she just mopes around.”
“My kid has turned into such a slacker!”


Sound familiar? If you're wondering how your bright, motivated little kid became such an unmotivated adolescent, you're not alone. Fortunately, help is at hand! Read by the author, this compassionate guide explains that kids who have lost the will to do anything (other than play video games) need more than simple encouragement or the “right” school, teacher, or coach to get back on track. Psychologist and learning expert Ellen Braaten helps you understand the myriad biological, psychological, and social factors that affect motivation, and get to know your own child's unique strengths, weaknesses, and personality traits better. Gain vital tools for tackling the motivational problems that are so pervasive today—and build a plan to boost your child’s confidence and engagement in life.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2023 Ellen Braaten and Sheryl Sandberg (P)2023 The Guilford Press

Critic reviews

"Dr. Braaten distills research and decades of clinical experience into this hugely useful guide. The book throws a lifeline to parents struggling to understand a kid who seems to have given up. If you want to help children discover and enjoy their strengths, this book is a 'must read.'"--Lisa Damour, PhD, author of The Emotional Lives of Teenagers

"This is the book that any parent who has ever said, 'I don't understand how such a smart kid just doesn't care about doing well!' needs to read. It demystifies motivation and offers practical suggestions, guidance about appropriate expectations, and empathic advice. I wish I'd had this book when my own children were younger. Dr. Braaten empowers parents to help kids succeed, and, just as important, to let kids be partners in defining what success looks like."--Amanda Morin, educational consultant and author of Adulting Made Easy

"Dr. Braaten skillfully helps you understand where kids' motivation comes from and the complex factors that may cause difficulties. She also addresses a critical question: Are your expectations for your child a good fit for who they are and the future they want? Parents concerned about motivational issues will want to read this book!"--Timothy E. Wilens, MD, coauthor of Straight Talk about Psychiatric Medications for Kids

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