The Price of Privilege

How Parental Pressure and Material Advantage Are Creating a Generation of Disconnected and Unhappy Kids

By: Madeline Levine PhD

Narrated by: Jo Anna Perrin

In recent years, numerous studies have shown that bright, charming, seemingly confident and socially skilled teenagers from affluent, loving families are experiencing epidemic rates of depression, substance abuse, and anxiety disorders - rates higher than in any other socioeconomic group of American adolescents. Materialism, pressure to achieve, perfectionism, and disconnection are combining to create a perfect storm that is devastating children of privilege and their parents alike. In this eye-opening, provocative, and essential book, clinical psychologist Madeline Levine explodes one child-rearing myth after another. With empathy and candor, she identifies toxic cultural influences and well-intentioned but misguided parenting practices that are detrimental to a child's healthy self-development. Her thoughtful, practical advice provides solutions that will enable parents to help their emotionally troubled "star" child cultivate an authentic sense of self.

©2006 Madeline Levine, PhD (P)2015 Tantor

Critic reviews

"Well-organized chapters help parents understand how to take the time and show the patience to help their children realize their potential." ( Library Journal)

The reader

The reader was so bad . It went fast and in a very monotone voice . It made very difficult to stay focus

so helpful. easy to follow.

Although I was a little wary of the reader's voice at first, I got used to it and even found it most appropriate for the content. I know my family will be better off because of what I've learned. Thank you, Dr. Levine.

Eye opening analysis of a parenting dilemma

Parents they worked a lifetime to give their offspring ‘the opportunities we didn’t have’ and engage in helicopter parenting to bring early advantages to them, neglect to properly weigh the impact of a values based and learn to fend for yourself education what made us who we are. Then we’re in shock to see all these kids of privilege with anxiety problems and without copping skills. While we’re blessed with great kids, I can see that I am guilty and wish I had read this when my kiddos were younger.

Review of The Price of Privilege

Loved it! A must read for parents, or anyone who works with kids and tweens.

Robotic narration

Good content and lots of good ideas.
Awful to listen to - the narrator sounds like a machine. I have never heard a person speak like her - it's almost creepy.