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Raising Good Humans

How to Help Kids (And Ourselves) Tame the Inner Voice and Clear the Chatter w/ Dr. Ethan Kross

Apr 11, 2025
Dr. Ethan Kross, a psychologist and neuroscientist, returns to discuss the powerful impact of our inner voice. He shares insights on how to help both kids and ourselves manage overwhelming chatter. The conversation dives into practical strategies for fostering resilience, including the importance of positive self-talk and the benefits of nature. Kross emphasizes the need for subtle support from parents while encouraging children to develop their own coping mechanisms, highlighting the balance between empathy and empowerment in emotional management.
45:57

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Dr. Ethan Kross emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing the negative inner voice, or chatter, in both children and ourselves to foster resilience.
  • Effective support for children involves empathetic listening followed by collaborative problem-solving, ensuring they feel validated yet empowered to find solutions.

Deep dives

Understanding Chatter and Its Functions

Chatter refers to the negative inner dialogue that many individuals experience, often becoming disruptive when it hinders problem-solving. The inner voice, while typically a helpful tool that aids in tasks such as memorization and self-motivation, can also lead to repetitive negative thoughts and harsh self-judgment. This inner voice enables individuals to simulate conversations or prepare for upcoming events, showcasing its positive functions. However, when it becomes focused on worry or self-criticism, it transforms into chatter, locking the individual into a cycle of unproductive thinking.

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