Encouragement can be defined as something that offers hope or gives confidence to another person. It can also be action, verbal or otherwise, which inspires and motivates another on a path toward a goal or accomplishment. Many studies have shown that encouragement is often misunderstood and possibly mistaken for praise, which is a notable distinction. Yet it is a form of verbal and nonverbal support intended to sustain another human being's will to persevere against the odds.
Significance
Unlike praise, encouragement, is meant to support another's sense of accomplishment and self-esteem. Encouragement is not meant to replace an individual's ability to help himself, but merely to offer support that fosters a sense of personal worth and ability. Encouragement does not use comparisons to others as a barometer of worthiness or achievement. Michelle Meadows, the outcomes and assessment specialist at the College of the Siskiyous, believes "true interest in what our students know and do is the greatest form of encouragement ... This engagement is a proven indicator of success."
Types
Words of encouragement are most commonly used to foster another's sense of accomplishment. Famous quotes or adages are often used to inspire one to persevere in the pursuit of a worthy goal or make use of latent talent when life becomes challenging. Though verbal encouragement is worthy and helpful, it is not the only way one can offer support.
Benefits
Further assessment by Meadows at the College of the Siskiyous shows that students and faculty alike were more successful when they received encouragement and support. Faulty and staff in any environment enjoy greater longevity when encouragement is an inherent part of the work environment. Moreover, the products of encouragement seen as "hope, motivation and confidence" can lead to increased productivity in the workplace.
Theories/Speculation
Nicolas Guéguen's article "Nonverbal Encouragement of Participation in a Course: the Effect of Touching" as published in the Journal of Social Psychology supports the theory that touch is a form of nonverbal encouragement that promotes positive behavior. In his study of students and teachers in a learning environment, those touched on the forearm by the instructor had a positive increase in their mood and productivity vs. their counterparts who were not touched.
Expert Insight
The American Council on Education (ACE) released a report stating that parental involvement is a major deciding factor in a student's college decision. If you look at parental involvement as the aforementioned interest that constitutes encouragement, the council's findings illuminate the importance of encouragement rather than parental influence. ACE based its findings on a survey conducted by the California Student Aid Commission which noted that among students surveyed, "having parents who supported the decision to go to college mattered more than anything else in a student's decision to enroll."
