Motivational and personality variables distinguish academic underachievers from high achievers, low achievers, and overachievers

Abstract Previous studies have associated several variables concerning motivation and other domains with underachievement, i. e. a student's academic achievement falling short of what their cognitive abilities, as the best predictor performance, would indicate. The present study extends these findings using more rigorous approach in defining underachievers suitable control groups. Using discriminant analysis, identified German twin family were compared not only to achievers comparable IQ scores, but also students lower aptitude, comparably low grades, well overachieving students. Results confirm previous that successful students, report levels parental support; beyond this comparison, differed from achievers, mostly terms personality. In total, 40% variance between groups explained. Additionally, data shed doubt on common assumption are an unusually heterogenous group