David Yeager, PhD, Encourages Families to Embrace the “Mentor Mindset”

Posted February 20, 2026

San Antonio Academy welcomed parents, grandparents, alumni, and members of the broader community for an evening of insight from David Yeager, renowned psychologist, researcher, and author of “10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People.”

Presented as part of The Academy’s parent education speaker series, the event offered more than theory. It delivered practical, research-backed strategies that families could begin using the very next day.

Dr. Yeager, a professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and co-founder of the Texas Behavioral Science and Policy Institute, has devoted his career to understanding what truly drives adolescents and young adults. His message was both reassuring and direct: Today’s boys are capable of far more than adults sometimes assume, but unlocking that potential requires a shift in mindset.

Drawing on decades of research in motivation, social cognition, and educational outcomes, Yeager explained why traditional approaches — whether overly authoritarian or overly protective — often fall short. In their place, he offered what he calls the “mentor mindset,” a research-based approach grounded in respect, high expectations, and clear communication.

In an all-boys environment, he noted, curiosity and energy can be channeled into meaningful experiences — whether shooting bows and arrows or simply digging in the dirt. These moments of discovery make learning feel inherently “awesome.” That sense of excitement, in turn, becomes a powerful motivator, guiding boys toward choices that support their long-term growth and success.

“A type of leadership style where you chronically tap into status and respect and reframe positive, healthy social behaviors as a root for that feeling of amazingness and awesomeness — that’s what I call a mentor mindset,” Yeager said. “The mentor mindset is very simply a combo of very high, rigorous, demanding standards, where you’re doing something legitimately hard, but you’re also supported so you can meet that standard.”

He went on to share effective, surprisingly easy-to-learn practices, like being transparent about goals rather than expecting young people to read your mind, and holding students to high standards rather than coddling them.

Before entering academia, Dr. Yeager taught middle school in Tulsa, Oklahoma, an experience that continues to shape his work. He holds a PhD and MA from Stanford University, an M.Ed. and BA from the University of Notre Dame, and has received numerous awards for his contributions to psychology and education. His research has been featured in major national publications and has shaped initiatives at organizations such as Google, Microsoft, and World Bank.

The evening underscored San Antonio Academy’s commitment not only to understanding boys but also to the adults who raise and teach them. Through SAA's speaker series, families gain access to best-selling authors, renowned educators, and leading professionals who share valuable insights on today’s most relevant topics in parenting and education. These engaging presentations keep our community informed, inspired, and equipped to support boys in both school and in life.