
Intelligence Squared
The Teen Mental Health Crisis and How Adolescence Shapes Us, with Lucy Foulkes and Pandora Sykes (Part 1)
Jan 7, 2025
Lucy Foulkes, an Oxford academic psychologist and author of 'Coming of Age', joins journalist Pandora Sykes to discuss the complexities of adolescent mental health. They challenge stereotypes about teenage behavior, emphasizing the role of social dynamics and the importance of personal experiences. Foulkes highlights the value of teenage love in shaping identity and addresses the challenges of sleep deprivation and social media. The conversation reveals how navigating popularity and peer pressure is crucial during these formative years.
34:10
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Quick takeaways
- Adolescence is often mischaracterized by stereotypes, failing to recognize the complexities behind risk-taking and emotional experiences during this formative period.
- Teenage romances, while frequently seen as trivial, hold significant emotional weight and can profoundly shape their perspectives on love and relationships.
Deep dives
Understanding Adolescent Behavior
Adolescents are often mischaracterized by stereotypes that portray them as reckless and selfish, yet this view fails to consider the complexities of their behavior. Many teens engage in risk-taking not out of thoughtlessness, but instead calculated reasoning, where taking risks can be seen as socially advantageous or an essential way to experience growth. By fostering a curious perspective towards their actions, it becomes evident that acknowledging the depth of their experiences can lead to greater respect and understanding. This realization challenges society to take teenage choices and emotions seriously, recognizing their capacity for impactful relationships and experiences.
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