I happened across a book from Barnes and Noble last week that totally has me hooked. I’m not even completely done with it yet, but it seems to be coming up in almost every conversation I have had with colleagues (I am a teacher), friends with kids, and even my boss. The book is called, The Price of Privlege, by Madeline Levine Ph. D.
In recent years, teenagers who are products of affluent households with very involved, well-intentioned, and well-educated parents are being newly identified as at-risk and are showing the “highest rates of depression, substance abuse, anxiety disorders, somantic complaints, and unhappinessof ANY group of children in this country.” It’s a very compelling read. I think what struck such a cord with me is that these children are being pushed and micromanaged to be so successful in all aspects of their lives that they aren’t given the chance to develop a sense of autonomy or a sense of self. That parents get caught up in wanting the “best” educationally for their children they are over involved in some things and under involved in others. That they are more concerned with “what” their child becomes, instead of “who” they become. It’s a thought provoking read and makes for great conversation. Pick it up if you can.
