Born to Be Wild

"Texting while driving. Binge-drinking. Bullying. Unprotected sex. There are plenty of reasons for parents to worry about getting a late-night call about their teen. But most of the advice parents and educators hear about teens is outdated and unscientific--and simply doesn't work. Acclaimed adolescent psychiatrist and educator Jess Shatkin brings more than two decades' worth of research and clinical experience to the subject, along with cutting-edge findings from brain science, evolutionary psychology, game theory, and other disciplines -- plus a widely curious mind and the perspective of a concerned dad himself. Using science and stories, fresh analogies, clinical anecdotes, and research-based observations, Shatkin explains: why 'scared straight,' adult logic, and draconian punishment don't work; why the teen brain is 'born to be wild'--shaped by evolution to explore and take risks; the surprising role of brain development, hormones, peer pressure, screen time, among other key factors; what parents and teachers can do--in everyday interactions, teachable moments, and specially chosen activities and outings--to work with teens' need for risk, rewards, and social acceptance, not against it."--Dust jacket flap.

Parents worry about getting a late-night call about their teen, but most of the advice parents and educators hear about teens is outdated and unscientific-- and simply doesn't work. Shatkin presents cutting-edge findings from brain science, evolutionary psychology, game theory, and other disciplines to explains why draconian punishment don't work. He believes the teen brain is shaped by evolution to explore and take risks, and shows how parents and teachers can work with teens' need for risk, rewards and social acceptance, not against it.