Age of Opportunity

Lessons from the New Science of Adolescence

By: Laurence Steinberg Ph.D.

Narrated by: Malcolm Hillgartner

A leading authority draws on new research to explain why the adolescent years are so developmentally crucial, and what we must do to raise happier, more successful kids.

Adolescence now lasts longer than ever before. And as world-renowned expert on adolescent psychology Dr. Laurence Steinberg argues, this makes these years the key period in determining individuals’ life outcomes, demanding that we change the way we parent, educate, and understand young people.

In Age of Opportunity, Steinberg leads listeners through a host of new findings - including groundbreaking original research - that reveal what the new timetable of adolescence means for parenting 13-year-olds (who may look more mature than they really are) versus 20-somethings (who may not be floundering even when it looks like they are). He also explains how the plasticity of the adolescent brain, rivaling that of years 0 through 3, suggests new strategies for instilling self-control during the teenage years. Packed with useful knowledge, Age of Opportunity is a sweeping book in the tradition of Reviving Ophelia, and an essential guide for parents and educators of teenagers.

©2014 Laurence Steinberg (P)2014 Brilliance Audio

The neuroscience guide to teen parenting

What made the experience of listening to Age of Opportunity the most enjoyable?

What a refreshing perspective on adolescence! The advances in neuroscience as explained by Dr Steinberg, have given us a new understanding of how our brains develop, which is fascinating in itself, but the development of the brain during adolescence in particular, explains why it is such a perilous but exciting time in our lives - why it is truly the age of opportunity. As someone on the brink of teen parenting this book was illuminating, invigorating - adolescents are on full throttle and brakes dont work - and liberating: like being handed a compass when you're lost. Highly recommended.

Best advice on addressing adolescence

Absolutely incredible, my work with teens will never be the same and I will make it my mission to share this knowledge with my community.

A must-read for all parents of teens/pre-teens

This gave me such a great understanding of the adolescent brain and WHY TEENS do what they do - why they think and feel differently from adults and children. It gave me such a good understanding of my children which gives me patience when dealing with their "behavior" issues. I loved the first half of the book, the second half was less interesting.

Mislabeled

Chapter 1 is actually the into and chapter 2 is actually chapter 1, etc etc.

No problems with the book or content

Accurate insight into adolescent behavior.

Laurence Steinberg puts all his experience with heart to get the best deal for adolescents.
Loved the scientific information which has been explained with lots of common sense.He has given the best scientific advice for parents,teachers and policy makers and policy enforcers.
Only spirituality (not religion)is missing which can help adolescents in self regulation.The book is read and presented in a very good manner.

if you think you know, think again

What made the experience of listening to Age of Opportunity the most enjoyable?

I work with adolescents in schools and Dr. Sternberg's book has been very helpful in understanding the range of issues they are dealing with. The neuroscience and the emerging humanity of kids.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Age of Opportunity?

Dr. Sternberg tells stories, including of those closest to him, that explain the perils and opportunities of adolescence. One was about his own child, Ben. I won't spoil it. Get this book.

Excellent work

Valuable material for educators, families with adolescents and lawmakers. Well narrated by Audible. I was able to listen to the 8hrs or so of narrative while driving.

Must Read for Parents, Educators, and Social Workers - Really Everyone

I obtained my Master of Social Work degree from IU. I have worked with youth and young adults for over 4 years, and I currently Direct a program that works with approx. 500 youth/young adults aging out of foster care each year with a current enrollment of 250.

This book has made me better at understanding and engaging youth/young adults, a better leader, and a better father and uncle. I highly recommend this book for everyone and especially those who work with the 10-25 year old population in any setting.

This book gives you the research behind issues for our young people, brain development, and directions on how to minimize risks and increase protective factors. Great read!

Important info for parents

Would you listen to Age of Opportunity again? Why?

Gave me invaluable information about my teenager's brain and abilities.

What other book might you compare Age of Opportunity to and why?

Like nothing I have ever read.

Have you listened to any of Malcolm Hillgartner’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

This is the only one by this author I have read, but he is clearly an expert in his field.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The author offers anectdotal stories that are so common to what we hear happening to teenagers everywhere and serve to prove his findings.

Any additional comments?

This book helped me to understand the maturation process of my teenager and how to encourage him correctly.

Actual probs & solutions concisely put together

Great thesis formatted book. Well thought out and researched. I have made new considerations in my own thinking because of this book.
I especially appreciate the author pointing out our legal and socially inconsistent rules for the adolescent age group.
I liked it.