Book Critique and Discussion Recap: Mindset by Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D.
I have to start this post by thanking everyone who participated in the discussion of Carol Dweck’s Mindset last week. I truly enjoyed your insight and discussion. Check out the FaceBook chat and a review of the book below.
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Dr. Carol S. Dweck’s 2006 book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success is a product of her research and teachings over the course of twenty years (Dweck, p. 6). In the first chapter, she gives background on her research on the development of the two mindsets and introduce the reader to the basic premise of the dichotomous model. Fundamentally, she has found that people with fixed mindsets believe qualities are “set in stone” (p. 6). Those with growth mindsets believe “basic qualities are things you can cultivate through your efforts (p. 7). “In one world- the world of fixed traits- success is about proving you’re smart or talented. … In the other- the world of changing qualities- it’s about stretching yourself to learn something new.” (p. 15).
Dweck discusses one of my favorite educators Marva Collins and her transformational work teaching a rich culture of learning to students in inner city Chicago. By leading from a growth mindset of possibility and positivity, Collins was able to instill a growth mindset of confidence and perseverance in her students. Dweck cites the work of Dr. Benjamin Bloom, and educational researcher who summarized his work as, “After forty years of intensive research… my major conclusion is: What any person in the world can learn, almost all persons can learn, if provided with the appropriate prior and current conditions of learning.” (p. 65).
Bloom’s statement brings about my biggest criticism of the book. The author devotes one section to “Negative labels and how they work”, where she discusses how stereotypes impact marginalized groups. Beyond this, she does little to address privilege or the very real structural barriers society forces on different populations. She discusses women’s trust of other people’s opinions and sense of belonging in the workplace, but does not address the role of sexism, implicit bias, the glass ceiling, the lack of equal pay for equal work, or other societal influences. Additionally, she completely skirts the issue of race and neglects other important identities such as socioeconomic status, sexuality, and ability.
Copyright Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D.
These factors are important because they are a part of the to “prior and current conditions” Bloom discussed. Chapter four discusses athletes who constantly push themselves to grow and achieve more and better. The recent media coverage of tennis champion Serena Williams’ figure came up in the FaceBook chat. Rather than allowing a fixed mindset about femininity and womanhood to stunt her athleticism, she pushes her body and mind to make herself better. As a champion dedicated to mastering her craft, she rises above the criticism. That should be applauded. Instead, her physique is ridiculed by her peers and spectators, and altogether ignored by researchers like Dweck. When addressing mindsets and internal motivation, the discourse must also factor in external detractors that athletes and all of us must overcome.
Dweck quotes basketball coach John Wooden: “I believe ability can get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there.” This quote summarizes much of the premise of Mindset. An athlete with an innate talent will not continue to win without the drive and dedication to refine her skill. A student with natural intellect will not continue to excel without an appreciation for learning. A leader with experience and credentials will not continue to guide an organization to success without humility and belief in others’ abilities. In all, Mindset provides a thought provoking discussion of the influence of outlook and internal motivation. Readers seeking an intersectional discussion will be left wanting, but those seeking practical advice on utilizing positive psychology in their lives and careers will be satisfied.
Paper and electronic copies of Mindset (ISBN: 978-0-345-47232-8) can be purchased online and in stores for approximately $16.00(U.S.) or less.