Book Review: Born to be Wild

Author: Jess P. Shatkin
 
Summary from Goodreads: 
A groundbreaking, research-based guide that sheds new light on why young people make dangerous choices--and offers solutions that work.

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 But most of the advice parents and educators hear about teens is outdated and unscientific--and based on the rates of teen pregnancy, accidents, addiction, and more.

Acclaimed adolescent psychiatrist Jess P. 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.

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, and 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.
 
Personal Review:
While, I do not personally have kids, I thought this book was a very interesting read. It is interesting to hear about the science of adolescence and the stories that go along with it. I studied family science in undergraduate and this book appealed to me in many ways. I appreciated the ideas behind this book.

I would recommend this book for those who want to learn more about the young person in their lives. I thought it had golden nuggets of information and ideas.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this book.

 Disclaimer: I was awarded this book. Though I did not pay for the book, the opinions are strictly my own.

Happy Reading!