Great question and one that we are asked frequently at Thrive Research.
Research suggests “reciprocal causality” between subjective measures of happiness and grades. One study measured students over time and researchers found evidence that higher levels of happiness influenced good grades…and vice versa.
On the flip side of the happiness equation, other researchers found a linkage between depression and academic performance. Students diagnosed with depression received letter grades of -0.49 (or half letter grade in student GPA) less than their peers.
While these findings certainly matter to the families of students, the rest of us also have a reason to sit up and take notice. Especially here in California, where our 6.9 million school-age children represent a larger number than the total populations of 38 of the 50 states.
Research suggests “reciprocal causality” between subjective measures of happiness and grades. One study measured students over time and researchers found evidence that higher levels of happiness influenced good grades…and vice versa.
On the flip side of the happiness equation, other researchers found a linkage between depression and academic performance. Students diagnosed with depression received letter grades of -0.49 (or half letter grade in student GPA) less than their peers.
While these findings certainly matter to the families of students, the rest of us also have a reason to sit up and take notice. Especially here in California, where our 6.9 million school-age children represent a larger number than the total populations of 38 of the 50 states.
Federal funding for programs like “Race To The Top” is increasingly contingent on measures of student achievement. California missed out on the first round of these grants (totaled at $3.4 billion) because of issues with poor student performance.
The state is now a finalist for the second round of grants, after revamping their proposal to address areas of student performance.
At Thrive Research, we have proven programs to improve happiness, self-esteem, and other factors linked to better grades and student achievement. Let us show you how we can help your student or school today.
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