Bad Therapy cover art

Bad Therapy

Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up

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Bad Therapy

By: Abigail Shrier
Narrated by: Abigail Shrier
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About this listen

In virtually every way that can be measured, Gen Z's mental health is worse than that of previous generations. Youth suicide rates are climbing, antidepressant prescriptions for children are common, and the proliferation of mental health diagnoses has not stopped the trend. What has gone wrong with our youth?

In Bad Therapy, bestselling investigative journalist Abigail Shrier argues that the problem isn't the kids - it's the mental health experts. Mental health care can be lifesaving when properly applied, but that is not what's happening. Instead, children experiencing the normal pangs of adolescence and their anxious parents are seeking answers from therapists, who are only too happy to explore what might be wrong - and to make money doing so. No industry seems to turn away from the possibility of exponential growth, and our mental health industry is no exception. It asks children, again and again: How do you feel? Are you sure? By treating the well, it is making them sick, feeding normal kids with normal problems into the mental healthcare pipeline. It is minting patients faster than it can cure them.

Drawing on extensive research and interviews with doctors, parents, therapists and young people, Shrier enumerates the dangerous side effects of unnecessary or poorly executed mental health care. With clear eyes and compassion, she examines ways worried parents who think they must indulge their child's every feeling make matters worse, and she offers liberating advice for raising emotionally resilient and independent children.

Packed with relatable stories, devastating insights, and common-sense conclusions, Bad Therapy is a must-listen for anyone concerned about protecting the next generation.

©2024 Abigail Shrier (P)2024 Swift Press Audio
History & Commentary Medicine & Health Care Industry Parenting & Families Relationships Social Sciences Mental Health Health Health Care

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All stars
Most relevant
Every parent, therapist, and teacher should read this book.

Abigail Shrier takes a nuanced and measured approach here. The argument is that, in our quest to do our best for children, we may be increasing the likelihood of mental health problems. Simultaneously, we may be preventing children from building the resilience they need.

Shrier isn’t arguing that therapy per se is harmful, but rather the issue is how it can be applied in practice (particularly in childhood) by well meaning people. Likewise, the underlying problem discussed isn’t one that’s uniquely a problem with therapy, but is relevant to anyone who is responsible for children. In practice, this means it’s at schools where a lot of problems are caused, followed by life at home.

This is a thought provoking book that’s thoroughly well researched and balanced. A great read

The road to hell is paved with good intentions

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One hopes this work will reach the many parents who have been so misguided by current thinking on child rearing. This was very well researched and very refreshing to read. A book difficult to put down. I've ordered my hard copy.

A remarkable book

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So much research and clear-eyed thinking have gone into this book. It’s such a relief to hear such a detailed analysis of what we know is true.

Brilliant. A call for parents to take back control

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This explains a lot about where things have come to and what it takes to change.

Truth

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everyone needs to read this book. One of the best I've ever read. If you're a parent, no matter what age is your child pick it up

A must read!

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