A student’s confidence in their academic abilities and the educational background of their parents, particularly mothers, are key predictors of their academic success, according to new research published in Personality and Individual Differences. Analyzing data from over hundreds of thousands of students across 79 countries, the study provides new insights into the intricate dynamics of educational achievement. For decades, the debate on what determines a student’s intelligence and academic proficiency has been vigorous and, at times, controversial. Past research has pointed towards a blend of…