Over the course of her 25-year career, psychologist and learning expert Ellen Braaten, PhD has begun to notice a trend. More and more parents are coming to her because their kids couldn’t care less about anything.
“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!”
How do bright, motivated young children become such unmotivated older kids and teens—and what can parents do about it? In this warm and encouraging guide, Dr. Braaten 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. Instead, Dr. Braaten helps parents understand the myriad biological, emotional, cognitive, and social factors that affect motivation—and build a plan to boost their child’s confidence, incentive to learn, and engagement in life.
Foreword written by Sheryl Sandberg.
Praise for Bright Kids Who Couldn’t Care Less: How to Rekindle Your Child’s Motivation
“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
“Dr. Braaten’s incredible commitment to eradicating the ‘myth of lazy’ shines through on every page. For our family, the book sensitively broke down issues that felt overwhelming. It provided clear, actionable steps that helped us reframe our children’s challenges and focus on their strengths and talents instead.”- Ashley J., Coatesville, Pennsylvania
“If you’re pulling out your hair in frustration as you watch your child not care–and not care about not caring–this book is for you. Before you lecture your child yet again, or worse, give up, Dr. Braaten has answers that work and are simple to use. With the skill of an experienced safecracker, she teaches you to unlock your child’s world and open up dazzling possibilities. Wise, practical, savvy, and warm.”- Edward Hallowell, MD, coauthor of ADHD 2.0
“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
Ellen Braaten, PhD is Executive Director of the Learning and Emotional Assessment Program at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Associate Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School (HMS), and a Visiting Professor at Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic. She has been affiliated with MGH and HMS since 1998. Dr. Braaten is widely recognized for her expertise in pediatric neuropsychological and psychological assessment, particularly in the areas of assessing learning disabilities and attentional disorders. Her research and numerous publications focus on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, gender and psychopathology, intelligence, and assessment. She has published numerous books for professionals and parents, including Bright Kids Who Can’t Keep Up.
