Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens

Here’s the good news: today’s tweens and teens talk openly about mental health. Here’s the not-so-good news, sometimes they inaccurately diagnose themselves or organize their emerging identities around a diagnosis. So what happens when your child insists they’re depressed, and you’re not sure whether it’s sadness, distress, or something more serious? In this episode of “Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens,” Dr. Lisa Damour and Reena Ninan unpack how to navigate these deeply sensitive conversations with empathy and clarity. You’ll learn how to validate your child’s feelings without reinforcing restrictive labels, and how to guide them toward healthier ways of understanding themselves. 💡 YOU’LL LEARN: - The key differences between sadness and depression - How to validate your teen’s experiences while being mindful about diagnostic labels - Why TikTok and peer culture are shaping the way kids talk about mental health - How to help your child find belonging and identity beyond mental health labels - The critical question every parent must ask if a child says they’re depressed With warmth, expertise, and practical strategies, Lisa and Reena help you approach these moments with confidence and compassion so your teen feels heard, but not boxed in. Follow and subscribe to our YouTube channel where you can see all our latest video episodes: https://youtube.com/@asklisapodcast And follow us on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn @AskLisaPodcast, @Lisa.Damour, @ReenaNinan. Checkout Dr. Lisa’s website for more resources: https://www.drlisadamour.com/ Ask Lisa is produced by: https://www.goodtroubleproductions.com Episode keywords: teen mental health, depression, anxiety, parenting teens, TikTok labels Podcast keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, parenting, podcast, teens, tweens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence

Joanna Schroeder, a writer and media critic focused on parenting, and Christopher Pepper, a health educator, share their insights on raising emotionally healthy boys. They discuss why many boys shut down emotionally and offer practical strategies for parents to engage them meaningfully. The conversation covers vital topics like teaching consent, combating harmful online influences, and fostering compassion over toughness. Their warm advice empowers parents to break through barriers and connect with their sons more deeply in today's complex world.

What happens when your tween or teen turns to AI for advice… or even FRIENDSHIP? Today’s kids sometimes experiment with AI chatbots in ways that many parents don’t see coming. While some of their interactions may be harmless, the risks are real. In this episode of Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens, psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and journalist Reena Ninan unpack the hidden dangers of AI companions, the developmental vulnerabilities of younger teens, and the steps every parent can take to keep kids safe without overreacting. 💡 YOU’LL LEARN: - Why AI “companions” can be especially dangerous for tweens and young teens- How AI captures kids’ attention using hyper-personal data- The real risks: sycophantic affirmations, harmful advice, no safety nets- Warning signs your child may be overly dependent on AI- The most effective guardrails: keeping tech out of bedrooms, building skepticism, and starting ongoing conversations- How strong parent–teen relationships are the ultimate protection against manipulative technology This conversation turns anxiety into actionable, compassionate guidance, helping you protect your kids while staying connected in a rapidly changing digital world. Follow and subscribe to our YouTube channel where you can see all our latest video episodes: https://youtube.com/@asklisapodcast And follow us on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn @AskLisaPodcast, @Lisa.Damour, @ReenaNinan. Checkout Dr. Lisa’s website for more resources: https://www.drlisadamour.com/ Ask Lisa is produced by: https://www.goodtroubleproductions.com Episode keywords: AI teens, parenting tech, digital safety, teen AI risks, AI dangers, parenting guide, teen technology, AI companions, digital parenting Podcast keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, parenting, podcast, teens, tweens, parenting teens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence

Discover the world of Zyns, the discreet nicotine pouches popular among teens. Learn why these pouches are alluring and the neurological risks they pose to developing brains. The hosts explore how social media influences trends, making teens vulnerable to marketing tactics. Gain practical tips for initiating a conversation about Zyns with your child, emphasizing curiosity rather than lectures. Finally, understand the importance of managing your response to maintain trust while addressing this growing concern in modern parenting.

Transitioning to college can be a rollercoaster of emotions, especially when homesickness hits hard. Discover why it’s more common than ever and how parents can find the right balance between offering support and encouraging independence. Practical strategies are shared for dealing with younger siblings who miss their college-aged siblings and tips on assessing college readiness. Plus, explore the option of returning home if necessary—navigating this stage doesn't have to feel overwhelming!

Jeff Selingo, a New York Times bestselling author and higher education expert, joins the conversation to turn college admissions stress on its head. He argues that it's not about chasing prestige, but finding a perfect match for your teen's growth. They discuss research revealing that mid-tier schools often yield outcomes similar to elite ones. Selingo emphasizes the importance of fit, engagement, and personal values, debunking myths about satisfaction tied to name-brand institutions while encouraging open conversations about finances.

A school’s phone ban can spark intense reactions from teens, but it might actually promote mental health and better focus. Discover how these restrictions can enhance coping skills and resilience. The conversation dives into practical strategies for parents to discuss these changes with their kids, paving the way for deeper family connections. Surprisingly, students adapt quickly to no-phone policies, leading to healthier social interactions. Learn to navigate the digital landscape and transform potential conflicts into opportunities for growth.

Award-winning journalist Jennifer Wallace joins Dr. Lisa and Reena to challenge the toxic achievement culture impacting teens. They discuss how to nurture a child's sense of worth beyond accomplishments, emphasizing the importance of mattering and emotional well-being. Practical parenting strategies like the 'puppy dog principle' are shared, alongside insights on fostering resilience without overwhelming pressure. The conversation covers balancing academic support with mental health, urging a reevaluation of success in raising happy, healthy kids.

Penn and Kim Holderness, co-authors of 'ADHD is Awesome' and creators of The Holderness Family, share their journey of embracing ADHD with humor and heart. They discuss the emotional complexities of living with ADHD and provide relatable anecdotes while advocating for understanding and compassion in family life. The couple emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, reframing ADHD as a unique strength, and the need for tailored approaches to support creativity and emotional regulation in children. Their insights empower families to celebrate neurodiversity.

Rick Clark, Executive Director for Strategic Student Access at Georgia Tech and co-author of 'The Truth About College Admissions,' shares his expertise on the college admissions process. He discusses the importance of early course selection and maintaining strong academic performance amid evolving admission standards. The conversation highlights the value of personal essays in showcasing individuality and the rising concern over college costs versus return on investment. Clark also offers strategies to reduce stress for both students and parents during this crucial journey.