The Price of Privilege

In this ground-breaking book on the children of affluence, a well-known clinical psychologist exposes the epidemic of emotional problems that are disabling America's privileged youth, thanks, in large part, to normalized, intrusive parenting that stunts the crucial development of the self.

In recent years, numerous studies have shown that bright, charming, seemingly confident and socially skilled teenagers from affluent, loving families are experiencing epidemic rates of depression, substance abuse, and anxiety disorders-rates higher than in any other socioeconomic group of American adolescents. Materialism, pressure to achieve, perfectionism, and disconnection are combining to create a perfect storm that is devastating children of privilege and their parents alike.

In this eye-opening, provocative, and essential book, clinical psychologist Madeline Levine explodes one child-rearing myth after another. With empathy and candor, she identifies toxic cultural influences and well-intentioned, but misguided, parenting practices that are detrimental to a child's healthy self-development. Her thoughtful, practical advice provides solutions that will enable parents to help their emotionally troubled "star" child cultivate an authentic sense of self.

Based on two decades of clinical practice, this book provides essential parenting advice to counter the culture of affluence:

• Culture of Affluence: Learn why materialism, competition, and disconnection are creating a perfect storm that harms children of privilege.
• Teen Mental Health: Understand the root causes behind the epidemic of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse in today's teenagers.
• Intrusive Parenting: Discover how well-intentioned but misguided parenting practices can stunt a child's journey toward independence.
• Development of the Self: Find practical, actionable strategies to help your child cultivate a healthy, authentic sense of self.