For years, we’ve hammered home the importance of good grades, solid writing skills, and extracurricular activities to college-bound students.

But a new book, The Self-Driven Child, makes a compelling case that something less tangible — a sense of control over their lives — may ultimately determine the long-term success and happiness of today’s teens.

And that key component is missing for far too many young people, leaving them feeling “powerless and overwhelmed,” write co-authors William Stixrud and Ned Johnson. As a result, students on both ends of the achievement spectrum often leave high school unprepared to chart their own path in life.

Discuss the implications and share your own insights during a #NACACreads chat on Sept. 12. The hour-long discussion will kick off on Twitter at 9 p.m. ET.

Though aimed at parents, The Self-Driven Child is chock-full of pertinent information for counselors and admission professionals. Stixrud, a clinical neuropsychologist, and Johnson, founder of a highly regarded tutoring service in the DC area, use the book to share what they’ve learned about the developing brain, chronic stress, and the science behind motivation.

Johnson, a NACAC member, will join the chat.

Learn more about the book and read an excerpt.

Admitted writer/editor Mary Stegmeir welcomes additional comments and story ideas at mstegmeir@nacacnet.org.