The Teen Whisperer: How to Break Through the Silence and Secrecy of Teenage Life

Linderman, clinical director of Spring Creek Lodge Academy, an alternative school for at-risk kids, teams up with writer Brozek to share lessons learned from 10 years of success with troubled teens. His clients—described in a number of case studies—are extreme examples of kids who turn to alcohol, drugs or other high-risk behaviors, but their stories provide insight into the volatile nature of the teen psyche as well as the importance of solid family relationships. Linderman relies on a model of five primary needs that teens require: survival, freedom, power, belonging and fun. He guides readers through each, describing how teens can act out when a particular need is not appropriately met (e.g., a lack of belonging may lead to alcohol abuse in an effort to gain status with peers). Linderman counsels parents to stay connected to their teens' lives. (At times, however, Linderman's approach itself seems a bit extreme, as when he asks his own teenage daughter to hand over her cellphone so he can converse with her friend.) Along with Linderman's philosophy on dealing with teens, the book includes useful information on warning signs that may indicate such problems as depression or substance abuse. Parents will benefit from both the clinical and personal experiences of a man who respects teens and whom teens respect. (Oct.)