Dan Kindlon Ph.D.
2007 - 2008 Common Ground Speaker

TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING: Raising Children of Character in an Indulgent Age


Do today’s parents give their children too much and expect too little? Material goods, emotional coddling, and “helicopter” moms and dads…where do we draw the line? Even the best-intentioned parents may be over doing it. Join us as Dr. Dan Kindlon addresses the consequences of a generation of children brought up with too much negotiation, protection, and entitlement. Dr. Kindlon links the concept of “too much” to alarmingly high levels of depression, anxiety, and social problems in young children and teens. As a clinical and research psychologist, he  illuminates the need to provide experiences that build responsibility, resilience, and character.  He urges parents to give their children the gift of “No”, and offers strategies for instilling maturity and independence.

Dr. Kindlon has taught child psychology at Harvard University for more than 20 years. He is the author of numerous scientific journal articles and several books, including Raising Cain (co-authored with Michael Thompson), Alpha Girls and Too Much of a Good Thing.