Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren’t Growing Up by Abigail Shrie

Why Modern Parenting and Therapy Culture May Be Hurting Our Children’s Growth

About the Book

Bad Therapy challenges the widespread belief that more therapy and emotional intervention automatically helps children. Award-winning journalist Abigail Shrier investigates why today’s young people seem less capable, less independent, and more anxious than previous generations, despite unprecedented mental health resources.

From the Back Cover

What if the very interventions designed to help our kids are actually holding them back? This book uncovers the uncomfortable truth about modern parenting, school counseling, and childhood therapy that every parent needs to understand.

About the Author

Abigail Shrier is a Wall Street Journal journalist and bestselling author known for her fearless investigative reporting on cultural trends affecting families. Her work has sparked national conversations about how we raise and protect our children in modern society.

Who is this book for?

This book is essential reading for parents who feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice, educators concerned about student fragility, and anyone who wants to raise capable, confident children. If you’ve wondered why kids today seem less prepared for adulthood, this book provides eye-opening answers.

What You’ll Learn

Inside Bad Therapy, you’ll discover how excessive therapeutic interventions can backfire, creating more anxiety rather than less. Shrier reveals the research behind childhood resilience and shows parents practical ways to raise emotionally strong kids without constant professional intervention. You’ll learn to distinguish between children who genuinely need help and normal developmental challenges that kids should work through themselves. Most importantly, you’ll gain confidence to trust your parental instincts over the ever-expanding mental health industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the main message of Bad Therapy by Abigail Shrier?
The book argues that excessive therapy and mental health interventions are preventing children from developing natural resilience and independence. Shrier shows how well-meaning parents and professionals may be creating the very problems they’re trying to solve.

Q: Is Bad Therapy suitable for parents of teenagers?
Yes, especially parents of teens and tweens. The book addresses why modern adolescents struggle with independence and offers insights into raising confident young adults without over-relying on therapeutic interventions.

Q: Does this book say therapy is always bad for children?
No. Shrier distinguishes between children with genuine mental health needs and the over-medicalization of normal childhood struggles. The book encourages parents to question unnecessary interventions while recognizing when professional help is truly needed.

Q: How can Bad Therapy help me raise more resilient kids?
The book provides research-backed insights into building childhood resilience through appropriate challenges, reduced overprotection, and trusting kids to solve age-appropriate problems. You’ll learn when to step back and let natural development happen.