Glaswegian grit a gift for success

Those growing up in Glasgow are more likely to have determination, perseverance and passion, a new study claims
12 April 2012

The fabled Glaswegian grit has been credited for making children born in Scotland's biggest city more likely to succeed.

Those growing up in Glasgow are more likely to have determination, perseverance and passion as well as the skills needed to succeed in life, according to a new study.

Researchers developed a so-called "grit scale" to measure qualities like working towards challenges, finishing what they have begun, and maintaining effort and interest despite failure.

The study of 2,000 11 to 18-year-olds found Glaswegians had more grit than those living in any other UK city.

Glasgow was given a "grit score" of 3.16. Aberdeen came second, with a score of 3.15, and Edinburgh joint 15th, with a score of 3.05.

The scale was developed by Professor Angela Duckworth at the University of Pennsylvania in the US.

Gloucester came bottom, with a score of 2.87, with children growing up there rated as the least likely to see their ambitions through. Respondents in the city said they changed their goals, lacked focus and were discouraged by setbacks.

Prof Duckworth said: "Grit may be as essential as talent to high accomplishment. If it's important for you to become one of the best people in your field, you are going to have to stick with it when it's hard."

The study was commissioned to support AXA's initiative the Ambition AXA Awards.

The £200,000 awards scheme for 11 to 18-year-olds was launched in March to reward young UK talent and achievement in enterprise, science, community, sport and the arts.

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