There are countless popular quotes about having a positive attitude — and how it can affect one’s performance from the football field to the classroom to a driving test or a job interview. But there is also recent proof from Stanford researchers that show one’s outlook on learning is just as important as one’s IQ. Apex Leadership Company reveals more about this study — and tips for building a positive attitude.
While previous studies have shown a correlation between students who have a positive attitude toward math and their ability to perform better in that subject, the Stanford research team took this to the next level with an additional study. The team analyzed the math skills of nearly 250 students between the ages of seven to 10 years old — and their attitudes toward the subject. Additional testing through an fMRI machine was performed on 47 of the students while they did some basic math problems.
The team was not surprised to learn that the students who liked math did better than those that reported hating the subject. However, the brain scans also showcased something further — images of the hippocampus, an area of the brain associated with memory and learning, was much more active in the test subjects that maintained a positive attitude toward math.
The study’s lead author Lang Chen said of these results, “We think the relationship between positive attitude and math achievement is mutual, bi-directional. It’s like bootstrapping: A good attitude opens the door to high achievement, which means you then have a better attitude, getting you into a good circle of learning.” She went on to say, “Attitude is really important. Based on our data, the unique contribution of positive attitude to math achievement is as large as the contribution from IQ.”
So how can a student create a positive attitude toward something they don’t naturally enjoy? The fact that kids don’t like math (or any particular subject or activity) could stem from insecurity. Perhaps they don’t feel like they are good at it or they struggle with it so they automatically form a negative attitude about it. Parents, guardians and teachers should take those cues as an opportunity to help student build their skills in those areas.
However, attitude is very individual and ultimately each person needs to take responsibility of his or her own. Once again, parents, guardians and teachers can help lead the charge by showcasing examples of how to have a positive attitude. Whether trying a new food or facing a challenge with a good attitude, it’s important to go in with an open mind and be positive about the situation versus letting fear or anxiety take control. It’s also okay for children to see their parents or teachers try something and not succeed at it. The important lesson here is to continue to try. Not giving up and persevering is another great way to showcase a positive “I think I can” attitude.
Having a positive attitude toward life is a great lesson for students of all ages to learn. It’s never too late to reformulate one’s attitude and try thinking on the bright side.
