About this episode

David and Sissy discuss the capability gap in teens and how parents can foster resilience and healthy development.

This conversation highlights a growing “capability gap” in teens, where some, often girls, are overwhelmed by pressure and perfectionism while others, often boys, are disengaged and avoidant. David and Sissy connect this to factors like digital communication, lowered relationship standards, and increased screen use, all of which can hinder resilience and healthy development. They emphasize that true capability is built through real-life challenges, responsibility, and healthy risk-taking, and encourage parents to raise expectations, foster strong relationships, teach coping skills, and create space for both rest and growth. Resources mentioned: Capable: How to Teach Your Kids the Strengths, Skills, and Strategies to Build Resilience by David Thomas and Sissy Goff The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence by Jessica Lahey Navigating Our Teens Dating with Paula Faris Birds & Bees . . . . . . Sign up to receive the⁠ bi-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠monthly newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to keep up to date with where David and Sissy are speaking, where they are taco'ing, PLUS conversation starters for you and your family to share! Pre-order our new book, Capable and grab tickets for…

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Raising Boys & Girls podcast page.