What role does socialization play in shaping the behavior of your teen? Would it surprise you to hear that research suggests the peer dependent culture fostered by the media and the public school system, does not contribute to a healthy social life? On today’s Home School Heartbeat, join HSLDA president Mike Smith, as he talks about this important issue with Dr. Robert Epstein, former Editor-in-Chief of Psychology Today magazine and author of the book The Case against Adolescence: Rediscovering the Adult in Every Teen.
Mike Smith:
Dr. Epstein, homeschoolers are always asked, what about socialization? And implied in that is that homeschoolers are not getting good socialization. What would your response be to that?
Dr. Robert Epstein:
Mike, I hear this all the time; it is so frustrating to me. I don’t know where this crazy idea came from that teenagers have to be socialized with each other. That makes no sense whatsoever. Teens in our country spend about seventy hours a week with each other. Teens in other countries, where there’s a strong connection between young people and adults, spend five hours a week with their peers. This system we have is crazy. The fact is, when you’re a teen you need to be learning to become an adult and you need to spend quality time with adults. The last people on earth that you should be hanging out with, and learning from, is peers. So positively, homeschooling in that respect is a very positive thing for young people because it creates a meaningful connection between young people and adults.
Mike:
Well amen, and I couldn’t agree with you more and thank you for being with us this week. And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.
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In Dr. Robert Epstein’s book, he raises some profoundly important problems with America’s view of young people today. His research is a valuable starting point for better understanding the years we call adolescence.
Whether you want to stay abreast of homeschooling news and legislative issues, hear about the latest @home e-vent webinar, or get specialized help for teaching your high schooler—or struggling learner—or elementary student, HSLDA’s e-lert service has something valuable for you. Sign up here!
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