Utilizing a Growth Mindset and the Tadros Theory of Change to Increase Children’s Well-Being

Abstract

Mindsets play huge roles in individuals’ goals, attitudes, relationships, motivation, and potential. A growth mindset is the desired mindset to have; it is very positive, learning focused, and encouraging. The academic benefits for students with growth mindsets include earning better grades, more motivation, and scoring higher on national standardized tests than students with fixed mindsets. Many studies have been conducted to determine the effects mindsets have on humans, specifically in terms of academics and overall well-being; however, there needs to be a stronger connection from research to practice to directly apply this mindset. The Tadros Theory of Change is integrated with a growth mindset to better conceptualize family strengths and structure as well as to empower and encourage growth and change. This article offers clinical implications for practice for both counselors and families and provides future research directions.