According to Dr. Robert Epstein, adolescence is an artificial construct of recent vintage, unknown in earlier times or indeed in many parts of the world today. The creation of this category, and the assumptions that inform it (by state and society alike) have harmed young people, he argues, and are responsible for the anxiety and angst we associate with the teenage years. These problems are not evident in cultures that lack this category. We explore Dr. Epstein’s thesis and book in today’s episode.
About the Guest
Robert Epstein holds a Ph.D. in psychology from Harvard University, and is the author of 15 books. He is the former editor-in-chief of Psychology Today, founder and director emeritus of the Cambridge Center for Behavioral Studies in Massachusetts, and senior research psychologist at the American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology.
Sponsor
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Book Discussed
Teen 2.0: Saving Our Children and Families from the Torment of Adolescence
Guest’s Websites
HowAdultAreYou.com (CAUTION: Parents should take test first before children. There are some very sensitive questions.)
Teen20.com
DrRobertEpstein.com
Listener Website Mentioned
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Audio by Chris Williams Audio.
