"Dr. Braaten distills research and decades of clinical experience into this hugely useful guide. The book throws a lifeline to parents struggling to understand a kid who seems to have given up. If you want to help children discover and enjoy their strengths, this book is a 'must read.'"--Lisa Damour, PhD, author of The Emotional Lives of Teenagers

"This is the book that any parent who has ever said, 'I don't understand how such a smart kid just doesn't care about doing well!' needs to read. It demystifies motivation and offers practical suggestions, guidance about appropriate expectations, and empathic advice. I wish I'd had this book when my own children were younger. Dr. Braaten empowers parents to help kids succeed, and, just as important, to let kids be partners in defining what success looks like."--Amanda Morin, educational consultant and author of Adulting Made Easy

"Dr. Braaten skillfully helps you understand where kids' motivation comes from and the complex factors that may cause difficulties. She also addresses a critical question: Are your expectations for your child a good fit for who they are and the future they want? Parents concerned about motivational issues will want to read this book!"--Timothy E. Wilens, MD, coauthor of Straight Talk about Psychiatric Medications for Kids