What is one reason gifted students might exhibit underachievement?

Gifted students may exhibit underachievement for various reasons, one of which is low self-esteem. When gifted individuals do not recognize their own talents or abilities, it can lead to a lack of confidence in their academic capabilities. This self-perception can cause them to disengage from schoolwork or avoid challenging tasks, ultimately resulting in performance that does not match their potential.

Low self-esteem may stem from several factors, such as negative feedback from peers or teachers, unrealistic expectations from parents, or the pressure to continually excel. As a result, these students may not invest the effort required to achieve at their highest levels, ultimately resulting in underachievement.

In contrast, high academic motivation is generally associated with a drive to perform well, which would typically result in positive academic outcomes rather than underachievement. Extracurricular involvement and positive peer relationships can also enhance a student's school experience and motivation instead of detracting from it. Therefore, low self-esteem serves as a critical factor that can hinder gifted students from achieving their potential.