Building Resilient Kids: The Four D's with Dr. Camilo Ortiz
Episode Overview
Allowing children to experience discomfort, distress, disappointment, and mild danger helps build self-reliance. Overprotective parenting can leave kids unprepared for real-world challenges. Daily doses of independence can be an effective treatment for child anxiety. COVID-19 lockdowns have significantly impacted young people's mental health. Balancing protection and preparation is key to raising resilient kids.
Kids need experience with discomfort, distress, disappointment, and mild danger to build self-reliance.
Parenting can be tough, especially when you're trying to raise kids who are resilient and capable of handling life's challenges. In this episode of Soberful, Veronica Valli welcomes Dr. Camilo Ortiz, a clinical psychologist and professor at Long Island University, to discuss the concept of 'Parenting as Prevention.' Dr. Ortiz introduces the 'Four D's' – discomfort, distress, disappointment, and mild danger – and explains how allowing children to experience these emotions can help them develop crucial life skills.
They chat about how modern parenting often focuses on shielding kids from any struggle, which might not always be beneficial in the long run. Dr. Ortiz shares insights from his research and practice, emphasising the importance of letting children navigate small challenges to build self-reliance. He recounts anecdotes illustrating how overprotective parenting can sometimes backfire, leaving kids ill-equipped to handle adversity as they grow older. Veronica and Dr.
Ortiz also touch on the impact of the COVID-19 lockdowns on young people's mental health, highlighting a surge in anxiety and other issues. The conversation is filled with practical advice for parents who want to foster independence and resilience in their children. Dr. Ortiz even discusses a new treatment for child anxiety that involves daily doses of independence.
This episode is a must-listen for parents looking to strike a balance between protecting their kids and preparing them for the real world. Why should you tune in? Because understanding how to let your kids face manageable challenges today can set them up for success tomorrow. Plus, who doesn't need a bit of reassurance that it's okay not to have all the answers? Give this episode a listen and learn how to empower your children to become strong, capable adults.