When we look back on our younger selves, we often remember a time when we dismissed advice from older people. We thought we knew better and could handle things on our own. But as time passed, we learned the hard way that maybe we should have listened.
Connecting with young people has always been a challenge, but new research is shedding light on effective strategies. David Yeager, a psychology professor at UT-Austin, has been at the forefront of this work. His new book, “10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People,” compiles key findings in this area.
In a recent interview with Texas Standard, Yeager discussed the book and shared insights on understanding the age range of 10 to 25. This period marks the start of pubertal maturation, which sensitizes the brain to social feelings and the need for respect from others. It’s a time of social reawakening, where young people are acutely aware of how they are perceived and respected by those around them.
Yeager emphasizes the importance of motivating young people as a crucial first step. Many adults express frustration with what they perceive as a lack of motivation in today’s youth. However, Yeager argues that this disengagement is not inherent to their age but rather a response to the environments adults create for them. By understanding this, we can take steps to address the issue and make a positive impact.
One key aspect Yeager explores is the role of stress in young people’s lives. While mental health struggles are a real concern, he challenges the notion that all stress is inherently negative. Stress can be a natural response to challenging situations, signaling the body’s readiness to perform at its best. By reframing how we view stress and providing support to navigate it, we can help young people optimize their performance and development.
Drawing from his experience as a former middle school teacher and basketball coach, Yeager reflects on the challenges of inspiring young minds. He highlights the importance of maintaining high standards while offering support to help young people meet those expectations. This approach, known as “wise feedback,” can lead to significant improvements in performance and engagement.
Ultimately, Yeager emphasizes the need to treat young people with respect and understanding. By bridging the gap between their evolving needs and the expectations placed on them, we can create a more supportive environment for their growth and development. It’s time to move away from negative perceptions of youth and instead focus on nurturing their potential and celebrating their contributions.