Six reasons for bad grades

Reason 1

Fear of failure

(high scores on the RSMP® scale for acceptance).

Some students struggle with school because they are not motivated to try hard enough and perform well. Typically, these students have a higher than average fear of failure (indicated by high scores on the RSMP® scale for acceptance). Because they expect to fail, they restrain their efforts (e.g., Atkinson & Feather, 1966).

They may exert effort on simple tasks, but not when challenged. They are also poor at handling criticism. When teachers or parents criticize them, they may disengage and stop listening. They may handle being criticized, yelled at, or evaluated poorly. These students will probably cope best if parents and teachers stand behind them and encourage them.

The vast majority of students referred to school psychologists score high on this scale.

Reason 2

Disinterest

(low scores on the RSMP® scale for curiosity).