The Myth of Maturity: What Teenagers Need from Parents to Become Adults

by Terri Apter (Author)

• New

  Paperback
  2002

  $22.89

  What do young people at the threshold of adulthood really need and want? Why do so many responsible and motivated teenagers become young adults who are still dependent, financially and emotionally, on their parents? Why are many young people today so quick to leave childhood behind, but so slow to become adults? In this wise and compassionate book, Terri Apter debunks outdated and misguided ideas about maturity: Acting in the name of love, many parents withdraw emotional or practical support, thinking it best for a son or daughter to solve his or her own problems-even to suffer alone the consequences of mistakes. Apter shows us that young adults actually need a parent's guidance and support, while also requiring respect and independence. Based on carefully observed case studies and current research, this book describes how we can support young people through a crucial stage in their development.

• Used

  Hardcover
  2001

  $4.20

  While parents, teachers and employers want to help young people move from adolescence to adulthood, they are hampered by out-dated and misguided ideas about maturity. They expect young people to reach adulthood at the same age previous generations did, unaware that they need longer to gain the skills required by an increasingly complex and changeable society. Unrealistic expectations crush young people's confidence and prevent those who care for them from providing the support necessary to allow a smooth crossing from adolescence to adulthood. Acting in the name of love, many parents of young adults withdraw emotional or practical support, thinking it best for a son or daughter to solve his or her own problems, even suffer through their own mistakes. Terri Apter show us that young adults need guidance and support, while also requiring respect and independence. Based on carefully observed case studies and current research, this book describes how young people can be supported through a crucial stage in their development.