City Journal Audio Therapeutic Culture Is a Luxury Belief: Why Young People Are Struggling
29 snips
Oct 17, 2025 
Abigail Shrier, the author of 'Bad Therapy,' critiques modern therapeutic parenting, while psychologist Rob Henderson shares insights on resilience stemming from his experiences in foster care. They delve into the roots of the youth mental health crisis, discussing how schools' therapeutic models may undermine parental authority. Together, they argue that high expectations and firm guidance are often more beneficial than therapy. Their conversation highlights the isolating effects of social media and the dangers of permissive parenting in today's culture.
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Set High Expectations Not Therapy
- Rob Henderson recommends prioritizing high expectations and standards over constant therapy for disadvantaged kids.
- He argues structure and achievement often help more than ruminating on trauma in childhood.
Labeling Harms Resilience
- Shrier and Rob distinguish trauma from adversity and caution against pathologizing ordinary hardship.
- They note labeling childhood experiences as 'trauma' often reduces resilience rather than building it.
Pull Schools Back From Therapy Role
- Shrier advises schools mostly get out of the mental-health business and retain only minimal support for acute needs.
- She says teachers and counselors should not function as therapists for everyday student behavior.
