Growing up without taboos

The book is based on a large survey, and we asked hundreds of teens (through anonymous questionnaires in schools) what they were wondering about, how they needed information, what help they needed, and how they lived through adolescence. They were at our disposal because we wanted to listen to them, we were curious about their opinion. Honestly, we didn’t expect the answers we got. It was shocking to read, for example, how enlightened 13- to 17-year-olds are, what problems some of them are going through, and what they want. To name just a few: alcohol, drugs, fears, sexual violence, suicide attempts, self-harm, and so on. These kids often cry out for help! They do not dare to ask for help from their parents or teachers. I wonder why? Nor do we parents know our child fully: what goes on in the minds of the adolescent, what mental troubles he struggles with every day. We set expectations for them that we believe will prepare them for life. Yet they need something completely different: attention, understanding, acceptance, and most of all, our love. And, of course, our patience, no matter how hard it is sometimes. Fortunately, their questions also show that many are still preoccupied with the same things teenagers did 50 years ago: love, dating, the first kiss. Mónika Fert, who is also raising an adolescent child, with a lot of research work and experience behind her, took on the task of communicating with adolescents. In their language, answering their questions, talking about their problems. His peculiar, honest, outspoken, yet hidden wisdom style has already won many in his book on self-esteem for adults. This is an honest book for teens to want to know about yourself or the world around you!