Why Gifted Students Need a Mattering Mindset More Than More Achievement

Achievement often overshadows everything else in the lives of gifted and talented students. But what if their deepest need isn’t to achieve more, but to know they truly matter? Drawing on the work of Jennifer Breheny Wallace and the psychology of “mattering,” this episode explores how educators can reframe success for advanced learners. Corey Alderdice, a national voice on talent and transformation, unpacks the research behind achievement culture, explains why gifted students are especially vulnerable to it, and challenges schools to build communities where students are valued not just for what they do, but for who they are.For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.