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“The authors approach motivation from different perspectives—all research based—and provide practical activities for a range of ages. I appreciate the emphasis on encouraging teens and tweens to identify their own interests, strengths, and values, rather than solely trying to meet others’ expectations. I recommend this book for parents, caregivers, and any young person who could use help overcoming barriers to success.”

—Hilary Adams, PhD, Clinical Director, Therapy Lab Kids


“This indispensable resource gives teens and the tools to discover what motivates them (and what doesn’t), what their goals are, and the action steps they can take to move toward those goals. The exercises are quick and easy and offer a range of options for kids to choose the best fit. Most important, the book helps teens build self-awareness and a sense of control over the direction of their lives. Highly recommended!”

—Richard Guare, PhD, BCBA-D, author of Smart but Scattered


“As the mother of two bright and curious kids, it’s always frustrating when they don’t seem to want to do anything. This book has a ton of suggestions to help all of us work through what’s making things difficult. I really appreciate that there are exercises and conversation ideas that will speak to both of my children, who have very different personalities. Anything that increases my options for helping my kids get more motivated is great!”

—Krista L., Boston


“Drs. Braaten and Bush go beyond explaining why kids struggle with motivation—they give us concrete, age-appropriate ways to explore the how of helping kids connect with what matters to them. The self-reflective activities invite teens and tweens to better understand their own strengths, needs, and motivators—and will help parents and educators make discoveries about themselves, too. This book offers a rare and welcome blend of insight, empathy, and real-world application.”

—Amanda Morin, educational consultant and author of Adulting Made Easy


“I appreciate the way that kids are invited to take ownership of their own priorities at every step. I’m very grateful to have this wonderful book in my parenting toolkit!”

—Clare B., Pittsburgh

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Table of Contents

Introduction: For Parents and Professionals

1. What’s the Point?

2. Who Am I?

3. What Makes Me Happy?

4. How Can I Get More of What Makes Me Happy?

5. Pulling It All Together

6. A Few Other Things That Can Get in the Way of Motivation

Resources

Index

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About the Authors

Ellen Braaten, PhD, is Founding Director of the Learning and Emotional Assessment Program at Massachusetts General Hospital and Associate Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Braaten is widely recognized as an expert in the field of pediatric neuropsychological and psychological assessment, particularly in the areas of assessing learning disabilities and attentional disorders. She is author or coauthor of many books and articles for parents and professionals.

• Author's website
• All titles by Ellen Braaten
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Hillary Bush, PhD, is a psychologist in private practice in Boston, where she provides neuropsychological assessments and therapy for children, teens, and young adults. Dr. Bush also serves as a part-time faculty member at the University of Massachusetts Boston. She has published articles across many psychology topics for both scientific audiences and the general public.

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Audience

Parents of 8- to 16-year-olds; also of interest to educators and mental health professionals.