55 pages 1 hour read

Greg Lukianoff, Jonathan Haidt

The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas are Setting Up a Generation for Failure

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2018

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Coddling of the American Mind by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt argues that overprotective parenting and educational practices have led to a generation of young people who are less resilient and more prone to anxiety. It discusses three key "Great Untruths" and examines the impact of these beliefs on students' mental health and campus dynamics. The book suggests cognitive behavioral therapy as a tool for fostering resilience and open-mindedness among students. The text includes discussions of mental illness, self-harm, and suicide.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

The reviews for The Coddling of the American Mind by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt are divided. Positive insights highlight its compelling argument about the adverse effects of overprotective parenting and campus culture on young adults. Critics, however, note a somewhat one-sided perspective and argue it oversimplifies complex issues. Overall, an engaging yet polarizing read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Coddling of the American Mind?

Readers who would enjoy The Coddling of the American Mind by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt are typically interested in social psychology, cultural studies, and higher education trends. They might also appreciate works like Allan Bloom's The Closing of the American Mind and Jean Twenge's iGen for their thought-provoking exploration of societal shifts and youth culture.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Anthropology

Themes

Society: Community

Values/Ideas: Safety & Danger

Values/Ideas: Truth & Lies