Empowering Underachievers

Underachiever Profile

While determination of underachievement should be made by a professional experienced in the field, some behaviors to look for include:

	Does well on achievement or intelligence tests, but performance falls far short of abilities
	Does not initiate new projects; does not find new ideas challenging (sees them as hassles)
	Can do well but is erratic; needs excessive supervision
	Is not a self-starter; does not display appropriate sense of urgency; misses deadlines
	Seems disorganized; often does not complete or turn in work
	Seldom accepts responsibility for personal failure; tends to blame others
	Starts enthusiastically, but quickly fades; promises "will do better next time"
	Unable to enjoy own successes
	Appears easily distracted when needing to do work; displays selective attention and memory
	Minimizes future consequences
	Seems unaffected by own deficiencies and ineffectiveness
	Fakes happiness (says he, or she, is happy but really is not)
	Punishment, rewards, logic, tutoring, training or just leaving alone are ineffective

Site Intention: The information contained in this site is for informational purposes only. It is not meant as a substitute for direct professional assistance. If you suspect a psychological problem, we strongly urge you seek qualified professional help from a provider near you.