Ep 51: Understanding the Social & Emotional Lives of Teenagers with Dr. Lisa Damour (Re-Air)

In 'Under Pressure: Confronting the Epidemic of Stress and Anxiety in Girls', Dr. Lisa Damour challenges readers to reframe their understanding of stress and anxiety. She argues that stress can be a healthy stimulus for personal growth and that anxiety can play a key role in keeping girls safe. The book explores various facets of girls’ lives, including home life, school pressures, social interactions, and online activities, to identify sources of toxic stress and anxiety. Damour provides actionable steps for parents, educators, and mentors to help girls manage these pressures and maintain emotional well-being.

In 'Untangled', Dr. Lisa Damour provides a comprehensive and reassuring guide for parents of teenage girls. The book outlines seven distinct developmental transitions that girls undergo as they grow into adulthood, including Parting with Childhood, Contending with Adult Authority, Entering the Romantic World, and Caring for Herself. Drawing on decades of experience and the latest research, Damour offers realistic scenarios and practical advice on how to engage daughters in constructive ways, addressing common questions and concerns such as managing eye-rolling, dealing with social media, discussing sex and substance use, and handling anxiety and eating disorders. The book helps parents understand and connect with their daughters, making the challenging years of adolescence less fraught and more enjoyable.