Anne Tolley is right, there are lots of theories about boys underachievement, but I am convinced by the motivational difference I see in young men who have found their sense of direction, that when they know what would really suit them, and what all the learning is for, and how it applies, they become much more achievement oriented. Just ask any parent who has seen this happen.
Many young men get advised or influenced out of their own dreams and aspirations – and often they haven’t even verbalised them – so that they end up doing subjects they don’t much like, and plodding through, and often failing courses that don’t inspire them. When boys make choices that they don’t really like, they are setting themselves up for lesser achievement. Young men need much more help to find their direction and the subjects and courses that will motivate and satisfy them more.
What I have noticed about boys thinking
- they have dreams but they are not sure they are right so are easily influenced to other paths. They are easily put off when their ideas and interests are denigrated by parents or friends
- they are motivated by good career management strategies and challenges that connect to their future
The story of Harry-
Harry, a young, bright business (but not very school) focussed 16 year old said to me recently in a counselling appointment, ” I want to make a lot of money, what should I do? ” He was hoping I would tell him what subjects and work to aim for. I gave him my standard reply for young people , because I get this question a lot. “To make a lot of money you have to be very very good at what you do. Find the course and the work that suits your talents, your interest and your abilities and become very very good at it.”
“Its like a craft, I said, ‘you start off with the basics and work to become better and better at it. The basics are here in school.”
Harry looked at me for a minute then he said, “But won’t everyone else have the same idea?”
“No Harry, “I said, ” sadly, not many will have thought of it.”
Harry went away with his career direction sorted and a strong desire to do very very well in his chosen subjects, after all, they were going to contribute to his future success, and he knew how and why.