The Second Family

by Ron Taffel
The Second Family cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Psychology and Human Behavior
Technical
  • ID: 4371
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780312284930
  • Publisher: Macmillan
  • Published: 2002-02-11
  • Reviews: 3

This book delves into the significant role that peer groups and pop culture play in shaping the lives and identities of teenagers. It examines how these influences have transformed the classic family dynamic, leading to a shift in the traditional American family structure. By exploring these changes, the book provides insights into how modern societal forces are reshaping family relationships and the challenges this presents for parents and teens alike.

Reviews
Rachel Simmons · 2025-06-25
insightful 4.50

The book is praised for its insightful exploration of the influence of peer groups and pop culture on teens, offering a fresh perspective on parenting challenges.

The reviewer commends the book for its deep dive into the world of teens and the significant impact of their peer groups and pop culture. They find the book to be a refreshing take on parenting, providing valuable insights and practical advice for parents. The reviewer also appreciates the book's emphasis on the importance of understanding and working with the 'second family' to support teens' development. They believe the book is a must-read for any parent looking to navigate the complexities of raising teenagers in today's world.

Quick quotes

    While families of origin certainly hold extraordinary influence over the lives of teens, to consider these influences is to consider the 'second family' of peers and pop culture.

    The book offers a fresh perspective on parenting challenges, providing valuable insights and practical advice.

    It's a must-read for any parent looking to navigate the complexities of raising teenagers in today's world.

The Washington Post · 2001-06-03
concerned 4.00

The book paints a concerning picture of today's adolescents' detachment from their families, highlighting the powerful influence of peer groups and pop culture. It offers practical advice for parents to navigate these challenges effectively.

The reviewer notes that the book provides a stark and somewhat alarming perspective on the current state of adolescent detachment from their families. They appreciate the practical advice offered to parents, which is rooted in extensive research and real-life examples. The book is seen as a valuable resource for understanding the dynamics of peer influence and pop culture on young people. The reviewer also highlights the importance of the book's insights for parents who are struggling to connect with their teens in a meaningful way.

Quick quotes

    Therapist Ron Taffel and coauthor Melinda Blau sketch a scary picture of why today's adolescents are increasingly detached from their families.

    The book offers practical advice for parents to navigate the challenges posed by the 'second family' of peers and pop culture.

    The insights provided are rooted in thousands of interviews with kids and adults, making the book a valuable resource for understanding the dynamics of peer influence.

Goodreads · 2001-03-07
comprehensive 4.20

The book is described as uncompromising in its exploration of the collective power of peer groups and pop culture on teens, offering a comprehensive guide for parents.

The reviewer describes the book as uncompromising in its exploration of the immense collective power of peer groups and pop culture on teens. They appreciate the book's comprehensive approach, which is backed by extensive research and real-life examples. The reviewer finds the book to be a valuable resource for parents, offering practical advice on how to navigate the challenges posed by the 'second family'. They also highlight the book's importance in understanding the dynamics of peer influence and pop culture on young people.

Quick quotes

    The second family, as uncompromisingly described by renowned therapist Dr. Ron Taffel, is the immense collective power of the peer group and pop culture.

    The book offers a comprehensive guide for parents, providing practical advice on how to navigate the challenges posed by the 'second family'.

    It's a valuable resource for understanding the dynamics of peer influence and pop culture on young people.

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