This study of 242 young adolescents examined the link between social self-image and academic achievement, as measured by grade point averages (GPAs). Subjects were categorized as academically, socially, or athletically oriented. Among socially oriented girls, those with an average GPA in mathematics had relatively large gains on social self-image, whereas among athletically oriented girls; those with a low GPA in mathematics also had relatively large gains on social self-image. Among socially oriented boys, those with low GPAs in mathematics and science had relatively large gains on social self-image. In contrast, no significant effects were linked to GPAs in non mathematics and science for young people who were oriented toward popularity or athletics. This research may help educators identify factors that turn capable adolescents away from careers in mathematics and science
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