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Understanding 12 -14-Year-Olds
Margot Waddell
Published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers
£13.95; ISBN: 1843103672

STAR RATING: 5/5

How many times have we heard a stressed parent ask "what has gone wrong with my child - they used to be so quiet and lovely?". 

Understanding 12-14-Year-Olds attempts to answer this by addressing the transition from childhood to becoming a young person, writes Andrew Dalton.

 The book supports the idea that this "gap" is the most fundamental change in a child's identity. It highlights the often powerful emotions 12- to 14-year-olds experience as they try to find their own space and distance themselves from their parents, guardians and carers while establishing friendship groups and peer support.

The bulk of the book addresses the question of how much distance and independence parents should give teenagers and how they should handle these changes. It gives practical advice on how to deal with situations and how to manage conflict around issues such as smoking, bullying, eating disorders and sexuality, which will not only help a parent but any professional who works with children and young people.

The quotations from older people about their experiences as a 12- to14-year-old are informative and interesting, evoking my own personal memories of being that age!


The highlight of this book is Waddell's clear, concise and informative writing style, complimented by her excellent research. I would highly recommend this book for the casual reader and those seeking some in-depth information about the "terrible 12's".

Andrew Dalton is a project manager for Trinity Youth Association, Northumberland