Teenagers might not outgrow behavioral problems according to recent research published int the British Medical Journal. Researchers followed 3,500 teens for 40 years to assess the degree to which adolescent behavioral problems persist into adulthood. Even those with relatively mild issues had poor outcomes in adulthood. Teenage behavioral problems are critical indicators of a person who has difficulties developing and maintaining positive …
Author Archives: koyrob
“You’ve Got a Difference, But Not a Disease”
Sports Illustrated’s ‘2008 Sportsman of the Year’ award is of no surprise to anyone this year. Michael Phelps and his mind-boggling 8 Gold Medals captivated the country in August. However, the manner in which his accomplishments have inspired thousands of children and teens who have ADHD is even more encouraging. NY Times writer Tara Parker-Pope calls Phelps the new face of ADHD. Ed Hallowell, a …
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Bah, Humbug!
Here are 2 little doses of ‘Ebenezer Scrooge’ for you just in time for the Holidays. Researchers recently released the results of the first comprehensive evaluation of how media effects children and adolescent physical health. After examining 173 scientific studies researchers concluded that in over 80% of the studies there was a strong link between media exposure and long-term …
Thankful
Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. No gifts, no guilt, no hysterical commercialism. Just lots of good food, special time with family and friends, and time out to count my blessings. I am especially thankful for my loving family and the wonderful kids, teens, parents, and families I am privileged to know in my …
Is a Child Born to be a Bully?
The current issue of Biological Psychology presents a fascinating study from researchers at the University of Chicago who used brain scanning technology to learn whether the brain of an aggressive youth responds differently to violence than does the brain of someone who is not a bully. In a disturbing finding, they discovered aggressive youths appear to enjoy …
What is it like to live with an Eating Disorder?
Eight men, women, and children boldly discuss and share their stories and struggles with the New York Times. If you’ve never understood this scary and secret epidemic listen to these stories.
Want to hear some good news?
Parity is here….Finally! Lost among all the terrible financial news was a piece fantastic legislation that will help over 113 million people. President Bush signed a mental health parity law that was included in the economic bailout bill which passed on Friday. This bill was the result of 12 years of passionate advocacy to get equal insurance benefits for mental …
Rescue Me!
My daughter started Kindergarten last month. I must admit the idea of 35 hours away from Mom and Dad at the local public school was daunting…for her parents. Although I think it a bit ridiculous that 5 year olds go to school from 8am to 3pm each day – this is a perfect time of year to remind …
Does Johnny do the dishes?
How much time each day does the average 6-12 year old spend on household chores?a) 60 minb) 45 minc) 30 mind) less than 30 minIf you chose more than half an hour, you’re wrong according to Sandra Hofferth, Director of the Maryland Population Research Center at the University of Maryland who studied 1,343 children for this …
Summer Camp
Whatever happened to summer camp being a time for children to develop and cultivate independence and resilience? This piece by Tina Kelley is astounding because of its absurdity. It’s come to this? Camps are now forced to hire parent liaisons to act like a hotel concierge service in order to keep parents happy.