Could Do Better: Why Children Underachieve and What to Do About It

Elizabeth Levin is a professor of psychology at Laurentian University.

This book explodes the myth that underachieving kids are lazy and
unmotivated. In fact, its authors claim that underachievers are highly
motivated, but in ways that are not reflected by school performance.
They discuss at length the six most typical types of underachievers and
offer detailed advice on how parents can help their child change his or
her behavior. For example, even constructive criticism can derail the
Anxious Underachiever, who, along with the Depressed Underachiever, may
need professional counseling.

Although their book is replete with helpful checklists and step-by-step
instructions, the authors frequently caution that it is no substitute
for a professional assessment. However, for parents who are concerned
about their child’s school performance, Could Do Better is a good
place to start.