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4.5
Daniel J. Siegel M.D. delivers a helpful guide for parents, teachers, mentors, and caregivers on the journey of adolescence. The author discusses the age of 12-24, a challenging time for the adolescent and the caregiver, which can also be a painful, thrilling time. Tips are given of how to help the adolescent survive and thrive, through this period in life. In addition, Doctor Siegel presents myths that are not true, such as raging hormones to be the evil cause, or to lose their minds. He explains that hormones do increase, but they don't determine what goes on.The author highlights that what goes on, what they experience, is the result of changes in the development of the brain. To know about these changes, is the golden key to helping an adolescent. This knowledge can help the parent, teacher, and mentor to make things more smoothing. Another myth is that adolescence is a time of immaturity, and they need to 'grow up.' The truth is that an adolescent travels through a path that can be confusing, and intense.Doctor Siegel also presents information on the testing of boundaries, the passion to explore the unknown,and the exciting. The findings of research and the truths of understanding this stage of life, can help the adolescent to lead an adventure, and purpose. The author also discusses dependence versus independence. More important, he points out that if we get beyond the myths, we can make this journey much better for the adolescent, and the caregiver.In conclusion, if we project negative attitudes, then this is how they see themselves. They will sink to that level, instead of realizing their true potential. We need to understand that this is a time of emotional intensity, social engagement, and creativity. The benefits and challenges are also discussed, along with the need of parents to have an emotional spark, and a reminder that what we see in others, can remind us of what we are missing in ourselves. Most important, when we understand the brain, we can make positive choices, and constructive lives. There is also information on: Maintaining The Power And the Purpose Of The Adolescent mind; How Communication Is Important To Relationships; Risk & Reward; and Pushing away. Interesting, extremely helpful, and thought-provoking. Highly recommended!
