Carved in Sand: When Attention Fails and Memory Fades in Midlife

Book Description

Why can't you remember where you put your keys? Or the title of the movie you saw last week? Or the name of your favorite restaurant?

Acclaimed journalist Cathryn Jakobson Ramin takes readers on a lively journey to explain what happens to memory and attention in middle age. Along the way, she turns up fresh scientific findings, explores the dark regions of the human brain, and hears the intimate confessions of high-functioning midlife adults who—like you—want to understand exactly what's going on upstairs.

Anyone older than forty knows that forgetfulness can be unnerving, frustrating, and sometimes terrifying. With compassion and humor, Jakobson Ramin sets out to discover what midlife forgetfulness is all about—from the perspectives of physiology, psychology, and sociology. Relentless in her search for answers to questions about her own unreliable memory, she explores the factors that determine how well—or poorly—one's brain will age. She consults experts in the fields of sleep, stress, traumatic brain injury, hormones, genetics, and dementia, as well as specialists in nutrition, cognitive psychology, and the burgeoning field of drug-based cognitive enhancement. The landscape of the midlife brain is not what you might think, and to understand its strengths and weaknesses turns out to be the best way to cope.

Jakobson Ramin's reporting of the stories of a wide array of midlife men and women will resonate with readers. Her audience will glean spectacular insight into how to elicit the very best performance from a middle-aged brain. A groundbreaking work that represents the best of narrative nonfiction, this is a timely, highly readable, and much-needed book for anyone whose memory is not what it used to be.

Customer Reviews:

I found the answer to my health problems.......2007-09-19

I read "Carved in Sand" book looking for answers to my frequent "young-senior" moments. This book is easy to read and full of information about the different issues related to memory loss. It is so interesting that you want keep reading it until reach the end. Cathryn Jakobson Ramin did extensive research with many scientists, physicians and mental health professionals bringing to light the reasons why some people lose memory when they reach mid-life.

Thanks to this book I found the answer to my other health problems that I have suffered with since I was 39 years old and the solution to helping me feel better. It was a light bulb moment for me. I recommend this book to everybody.

Friends Lined Up.......2007-09-18

This book speaks to a fear many boomers silently suffer with--memory loss. We sort of expect the elderly to have memory problems, but its not supposed to bother the late middle-aged!!. As I told my friends about Ramin's exploration and her journey into the many experiences with and causes of faltering memory in middle age, my friends lined up for me to finish the book and loan it to them. This is a topic that is largely hidden and dealt with in silence. A welcome contribution to this field.

At least I'm not alone.......2007-09-14

Entertaining and informative. packed with medical details, yet written in an entertaining and understandable way. It answered a lot of questions and cleared up a lot of misconceptions I had about Alzheimers. I also requested for a prescrition change.

Highly recommended.......2007-09-07

The big question for all of us in the middle age bracket is this: When we draw a blank when searching for a word or a person's name--is this normal forgetfulness or are we suffering from something much scarier? In this well-researched book, Cathryn Jakobson Ramin does an excellent job of presenting possible reasons for memory lapses and ways to deal with them.

In addition to having her brain and body tested for what might be the cause of her own memory lapses, the author interviewed many people and performed extensive research on the topic. She found that how you treat your brain in middle age will make a difference later. Midlife is the time to act: to make good decisions on diet, stress management, sleeping habits, and exercise.

She writes that today's world is an especially difficult time to reach middle age as we are "smack in the middle of a technological revolution." We can be overwhelmed by the amount of information available and the endless stream of interruptions, multitasking, and over stimulation.

In very readable prose, she explains how our minds are affected by the foods we consume, our hormones, the drugs we take, the chemicals in the environment, our sleep patterns, blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and the amount of exercise that we get. Since we need to build up our cognitive reserve to keep mentally active, she gives tips on how to perform these "intellectual push-ups."

In spite of the seriousness of the subject, this book is a pleasure to read and even funny at times.

Excellent source.......2007-07-13

This book was an excellent source for education about the different types of memory problems which can occur as we age, which proved to be a lot more complicated than I had imagined. The author did an excellent job. It was easy to read and follow and well worth the read.

Leap!: What Will We Do with the Rest of Our Lives?

Average customer rating:

And she wondered why everyone there seemed to hate her?
Buy this book if you want to write a new life script for the last third of your life
"Am I the only survivor of high school Class of '62?"
Excellent summer read!
What a long strange trip it's been....

Leap!: What Will We Do with the Rest of Our Lives?
Sara Davidson
Manufacturer: Random House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Thinking About Tomorrow: Reinventing Yourself at Midlife
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Carved in Sand: When Attention Fails and Memory Fades in Midlife

ASIN: 0345478088
Release Date: 2007-02-20

Book Description

Thirty years ago, Sara Davidson wrote the phenomenal bestseller Loose Change, the definitive book about the boomer generation’s coming-of-age. Now this witty social observer has again turned her discerning eye to her contemporaries, with Leap!, a no-holds-barred, illuminating, and hopeful look at the choices and challenges we face and the roads open to us.

For many years Davidson earned a living as a successful journalist and screenwriter, but in her fifties she saw her life come apart: She could no longer find work, she endured a break-up with her partner, and her children left for college. For the first time ever, she had nothing to do. She felt adrift, but she found that she was not alone.

In Leap!, Davidson sets out on a passionate quest to learn how to do the coming years well. Drawing on her own experience and that of others, she explores such questions as

• How does a high-powered person learn to walk down the ladder gracefully?
• How can women continue to be sensual and not touch-deprived?
• How do we arrange to grow old with our friends?
• What will be the fire at the center of our lives?
• Why are we still here?

Davidson interviews people from across the country and from all walks of life, including such icons as Carly Simon, Tom Hayden, Tracy Kidder, Jane Fonda, Ram Dass, and Iman, as well as teachers, writers, psychologists, businesspeople, and spiritual leaders. The candid portraits are both inspiring and cautionary.

True to character, boomers will approach these years differently from previous generations, and there will be no single path. Some will feel free for the first time to take risks; others will embark upon a spiritual search; some will want to give back, to make the world a better place; others will want to play or make creativity a priority. But they will not fade quietly into the sunset.

With Leap!, Sara Davidson holds up a mirror for readers, allowing them to see not only themselves and those around them but their potential future. With Davidson as a guide, the possibilities are boundless.

Customer Reviews:

And she wondered why everyone there seemed to hate her?.......2007-09-30

This is a very good example of how not to write an auto-biography. If you buy it for that use, you haven't wasted your money. If you consider buying it to help you make some hard decisions in your own destiny, don't do it! She goes on and on and cries many tears about her own sorry fate and betrayal by all who (she thinks) should love her ... and I still can't figure out what the publishers were thinking when they accepted the book; it wasn't to help others make decisions or create their own paths.

Buy this book if you want to write a new life script for the last third of your life.......2007-09-22

5 Stars--Buy this book if you're looking to write a new script for the last third of your life!

I found Leap! to be encouraging and inspirational. I highly recommend this book if you're looking to see how some people redefined themselves in their later years -- as a jumping off point for your own redefinition. For me it stimulated thought about my own situation and how I can leverage it in my own way. In fact, I spent the weekend after reading it coming up with new ideas. It came at the right time: I'm 56 and looking at a life change in the very near future. I loved this book and some of my friends and family will be unwrapping it at Christmas.

Perhaps those who were disappointed were looking for a step-by-step how-to. Life is not that simplistic, one size does not fit all and this is not that book. But if you want an optimistic view of the possibilities for the last third of your life--this is the right book.

For the most part, the people interviewed had analyzed their lives and made thoughtful decisions based on their own life circumstances. Clearly, these are people who had progressed further than survival on Maslow's old "hierarchy of need" scale--because they're the only people who have the luxury of really redefining themselves.

Still, you don't have to be affluent to do it -- I know a number of people of modest means who have redefined themselves in the 60s and are perfectly happy with their new lives.

The Cheryl Tiegs interview was amusing--not that I found her all that inspirational for me (I'll never have her breasts or her money) but it was interesting to hear her thoughts based on her own situation. Although I don't consider her views a model (so to speak) they are as valid as anyone else's--and since we know a little about her history it was mildly interesting to see where she's at today.

Great, thoughtful read for anyone over 40 and especially those of us in our 50s looking to do something else with our lives.

"Am I the only survivor of high school Class of '62?".......2007-09-11

Suddenly I'm celebrating my 63rd birthday. How did THAT happen? (It seems that I was 33 only a couple of years ago...) That, and other burning questions were answered for me as I read Sara Davidson's latest, titled LEAP!. I couldn't put it down. It is,all at once, funny, sad and encouraging. I'm pleased to report that the Class of '62 (and thereabouts) is well and optimistic. If you're like me your copy will wind up underlined, highlighted and notated. My wife (age 58) is reading it now. She keeps asking me what the notations mean. If you're a "boomer" or "preboomer", don't miss out on LEAP! It's a GREAT read. Dave Sotrines

Excellent summer read!.......2007-09-10

"Leap" is a most entertaining read that's chock full of amusing wisdom and desperate soul searching. She includes anecdotal stories galore with people of notoriety (Carly Simon, Jac Holzman, Ray Manzarek, etc) who show their humane and vulnerable side. And Sara shows her life like an open door with seemingly nothing held back which would make a primo Reality show.

"Leap" oddly reminded me of Baseball's intellectual psychedelic star Bill Lee's autobiography which concludes with him entering his mid-life crisis with no trodden path to follow nor safe harbor destination in sight. Ms Davidson humbles herself with all sorts of crazy, lazy, and hazy siituations and ultimately takes the cliche trip to study at an ashram in India which turns out to be a bit of a sham.

For those looking for answers--something those psychologists and psychiatrist charlatan bastards won't ever give you--thankfully Ms Davidson outlines many personal and related strategies for a successful post-50 life. For instance, her formula for a successful relationship in theory sounds right on--determination, living with the mystery of the other, and ability to laugh together. Plus her "blank slate" image for retirement is elevating and insighful. I also enjoyed reading a synopsis about her discovery of "Tango" which is a recent passion of mine that proves old dogs can learn new tricks. SVP Sara for the advice.

Having personally entered this twilight age-zone a few years ago and experiencing many of her situations firsthand, it almost seems like you are chatting with Sara on your backyard patio indulging in tea and scones while the hours wind down unnoticed and then realizing it's midnight and you need to put on a sweater. It's reassuring to know that you are not alone in the confusion of having a rewarding and successful youth and then the walls come crashing down while deciding what the %@$!#&#% am I going to do with the last half of your life.

Excellent summer read!
Erik Lindgren

What a long strange trip it's been.... .......2007-09-01

Who was it - David Crosby? Wavy Gravy? - who said "if you remember the 60s, you weren't there?" I remember pretty clearly, and so does Sara Davidson. She weaves history and memoir into a complex and intriguing piece that speaks not only about where we are now, but suggests that we still have places to go. I saw myself and my friends in many of her pages - sometimes proudly, sometimes not so much. Yet I find myself thinking about many of the issues she raises , including where I want to live and who with over the next 30 years. And what I want to do with the rest of my life. After teaching for nearly forty years at both high schools and universities, I have begun to think about other possibilities. I have never been one to eagerly embrace change, but Sara's book makes me think that there is still a long and winding road ahead as well as behind.

Driven To Distraction : Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit Disorder from Childhood Through Adulthood

Average customer rating:

One of the best places to start
Do you question what ADD is and whether you or someone you love has ADD?
The classic for ADD information
The BEST.
very helpful

Driven To Distraction : Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit Disorder from Childhood Through Adulthood
Edward M. Hallowell , and John J. Ratey
Manufacturer: Touchstone
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0684801280

Amazon.com

This clear and valuable book dispels a variety of myths about attention deficit disorder (ADD). Since both authors have ADD themselves, and both are successful medical professionals, perhaps there's no surprise that the two myths they attack most persistently are: (a) that ADD is an issue only for children; and (b) that ADD corresponds simply to limited intelligence or limited self-discipline. "The word disorder puts the syndrome entirely in the domain of pathology, where it should not entirely be. Although ADD can generate a host of problems, there are also advantages to having it, advantages that this book will stress, such as high energy, intuitiveness, creativity, and enthusiasm, and they are completely overlooked by the 'disorder' model." The authors go on to cite Mozart and Einstein as examples of probable ADD sufferers. (The problem as they see it is not so much attention deficit but attention inconsistency: "Most of us with ADD can in fact hyperfocus at times.") Although they warn against overdiagnosis, they also do a convincing job of answering the criticism that "everybody, and therefore nobody" has ADD. Using numerous case studies and a discussion of the way ADD intersects with other conditions (e.g., depression, substance abuse, and obsessive-compulsive disorder), they paint a concrete picture of the syndrome's realities. Especially helpful are the lists of tips for dealing with ADD in a child, a partner, or a family member. --Richard Farr

Book Description

Through vivid stories of the experiences of their patients (both adults and children), Drs. Hallowell and Ratey show the varied forms ADD takes -- from the hyperactive search for high stimulation to the floating inattention of daydreaming -- and the transforming impact of precise diagnosis and treatment.

Customer Reviews:

One of the best places to start.......2007-09-07

This book is a great resource for those who wonder if they may have some issues with ADD and ADHD (actually the same diagnosis) I originally bought this book to figure myself out (and subsequently saw clues to my mother's behavior all these years). WHen my youngest was diagnosed with ADHD, I re-read it to get the perspective of a child's struggle with ADD. Essential reading.

Do you question what ADD is and whether you or someone you love has ADD?.......2007-08-20

This book can change your life. If you read this book, and you see your life history/story, maybe you should find out a little more about ADD and yourself. Or if you read this book and you see your husband, wife or child, this can be a first step in answering many questions.

The classic for ADD information.......2007-08-18

I love this book, and have bought several copies over the years for newly diagnosed friends, etc. It is concise, clear and not overly stuffy. It doesn't throw a pity party like some books about disabilities do, and offers a diagnostic criteria, as well as coping skills, medical links, and resources listed in the back. A must read if you or anyone you love has ADD, or ADHD.

The BEST........2007-06-20

The absolute best book out there for an introduction to ADD. The structure of the book is perfectly managable for an ADDer without being condescendingly superficial or taking on a tone of talking to children, like some of these books do. I'd also recommend it to anyone who has friends or family who either doubt the existence of or (just don't know much about) ADD.
Check out Hallowell's "Delivered" for more coping mechanisms, and info on treatment, therapy and medication.

very helpful.......2007-06-17

If you wish to become more informed on the topic of ADD and ADHD,then this book is a "must read". The format is easy to read and understand. The reader can identify with one or more of the many examples and scenarios outlined in the book. I found it to be extremely helpful in understanding what ADD is really all about and what it feels like for my daughter to live with ADD.
In addition, I now recognize symptoms of adult ADD as well.

Average customer rating:

Development in Adulthood (4th Edition)
Barbara Hansen Lemme
Manufacturer: Allyn & Bacon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Theories of Adolescence

ASIN: 0205439640

Book Description

This comprehensive, multidisciplinary book presents an empowering view of adulthood through an examination of the influences of age, gender, cohort, race/ethnicity, socio-economic status, and culture. Readers of all ages will find this engaging, accessible introduction to the challenges and opportunities of adult life to be relevant to both their personal and vocational lives. For psychologists, nurses, gerontologists, counselors, social workers, or anyone interested in adult development and aging.

Psychology Applied to Modern Life: Adjustment in the 21st Century

Average customer rating:

Adequate

Psychology Applied to Modern Life: Adjustment in the 21st Century
Wayne Weiten , and Margaret A. Lloyd
Manufacturer: Wadsworth Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Exploring Literature: Writing and Arguing about Fiction, Poetry, Drama, and the Essay (3rd Edition)
Writer's Brief Handbook, The (5th Edition)

Accessories:

Personal Explorations Workbook for Weiten/Lloyd's Psychology Applied to Modern Life: Adjustment in the 21st Century, 8th
Study Guide for Weiten/Lloyd's Psychology Applied to Modern Life: Adjustment in the 21st Century, 8th

ASIN: 0534608590

Book Description

Filled with comprehensive, balanced coverage of classic and contemporary research, relevant examples, and engaging applications, Weiten and Lloyd's text shows students how psychology helps them understand themselves and the world, and uses psychological principles to illuminate the variety of opportunities they have in their lives and their future careers. While professors cite this best-selling book for its academic credibility and the authors' ability to stay current with 'hot topics,' students say it's one text they just don't want to stop reading. Students and instructors alike find the text and associated workbook to be a highly readable, engaging, visually appealing package that provides a wealth of material they can put to use every day.

Customer Reviews:

Adequate .......2006-11-10

this was a text book for psychology at Baker College in Port Huron in Chonda Stimer's class. I found it to be the correct book. Beyond that, it has a lot of useful contemporary (post 9/11) information that is quite useful. Be sure to get the workbook as well. As a textbook, it is actually a very interesting book and no sleeper, as so many text's tend to be.

Why Can't We Get Along?: Healing Adult Sibling Relationships

Average customer rating:

Why Can't We Get Along

Why Can't We Get Along?: Healing Adult Sibling Relationships
Peter Goldenthal
Manufacturer: Wiley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Make Peace With Anyone: Breakthrough Strategies to Quickly End Any Conflict, Feud, or Estrangement
My Sister, My Self

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philosophy hope in a jar daily moisturizer

ASIN: 0471388424

Book Description

Praise for Peter Goldenthals previous books:

"[Dr. Goldenthals] techniques...are presented with insight and clarity. This is a unique and valuable book." —William B. Carey, M.D., Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine

"Peter Goldenthal gives us new insights.... This is a must-read book." —Myrna Shure, Ph.D., author of Raising a Thinking Child

Hasnt it gone on long enough-the rivalry, the jealousy, the pent-up anger, and the grudges rooted in the past? In this book, renowned author and family psychologist Peter Goldenthal offers proven prescriptions for brothers and sisters who want to break through old, destructive patterns and create a richer, more loving, and more rewarding relationship with their adult siblings.

Using dramatic case histories drawn from his own clinical practice, Dr. Goldenthal helps you understand why adult siblings fight. Warmly and insightfully, he presents practical techniques to:

Communicate with-and listen to-your sibling
Free yourself from past resentments
Cope with your siblings selfish or inconsiderate behavior
Support and comfort a sibling who suffers from mood problems
Manage a siblings difficult personality
Help your children avoid sibling problems

Dont let old hurts and destructive behavior patterns overshadow the love you feel for your sibling. Read Why Cant We Get Along? and find the key to establishing warm and loving sibling relationships that will last a lifetime.

Customer Reviews:

Why Can't We Get Along.......2002-04-02

Even adult siblings sometimes can't break long-standing rivalries or anger. Instead of turning your back on the relationship, read this book, and turn a new leaf. The author gives practical communication tips that will free you from the past and allow you to look to a brighter future with your sibling. For anyone looking to improve his or her sibling relationship, don't miss this book.

Average customer rating:

I'd give it zero stars if I could
HORRABLE
Increasing understanding of Aging

The Journey of Adulthood, Fifth Edition
Helen L. Bee , and Barbara R. Bjorklund
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0130970417

Book Description

This best-selling book discusses the aspects of “successful aging,” covering growth and development from young adulthood to old age, and the impact that culture, gender, and individual differences have on these processes. Its conversational and positive tone keeps readers interested in the subject matter, as it encourages them to apply the concepts of the book to their own lives. It presents research findings, theories, and models from the fields of developmental psychology, social psychology, health psychology, sociology, and others to discuss topics of prevention, compensation, gains, and losses. For psychologists, sociologists, and gerontologists interested in a valuable resource for information about the aging process.

Customer Reviews:

I'd give it zero stars if I could.......2005-10-22

I understand that the typical Psychology Book is not exactly a riveting novel, but good god, this was way too much. I have never been more annoyed with a text book- I would never voluntarily have read this garbage! She would have had a much shorter book if we weren't forcefed her life story at every possible chance she could insert it in. This woman is very full of herself...very full. There were a lot of typos, a lot of redundent sentences, and a lot of crap we didn't need! I hope for the rest of the psychology students of the world that this author reads these reviews and vows never to write another text book again. If I ever have a class that requires another text book by her, I will drop without hesitation! And change majors the next morning!

HORRABLE.......2004-04-15

In my 4 years as an undergraduate i have never read such a poorly written book. She has more typo's then I have including multiple references to the NEO-PR (NEO-PI-R). She incorrectly summarizes groundbreaking research (i.e. Ceci, Rosenblum, & Debruyn, 1999). Her feminist agenda flows freely all over this book along with usless stories about her self that dont add to the text. DO NOT PURCHASE THIS BOOK FOR YOUR CLASS. You and your students will regret it.

Increasing understanding of Aging.......2002-04-16

Hellen Bee is able to carry one through the years of adulthood through many avenues. Using scientific studies she interprets the data in meaningful ways. Inclusion of personal accounts and her conversational style make the reading interesting. The book continually ties previous ideas to new concepts giving a nice continuity. I especially enjoyed her occasional insertions of the not-so-scientific spiritual aspects of the adult experience, which I was not expecting in a textbook. My ideas of what it means to grow old were challenged and changed during the reading of this book. Some myths of adulthood are adeptly smashed making the thought of aging not such a frightful one. The only criticism I would include is that occasionally the point being made was not clear to me and a few conclusions seem to have contradictory statements in following chapters. That may be expected in the field of psychology, however.

Adolescence and Emerging Adulthood: A Cultural Approach (3rd Edition)

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Adolescence and Emerging Adulthood: A Cultural Approach (3rd Edition)
Jeffery J. Arnett
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0131950711

Book Description

A rich and timely introduction to the field of adolescent development, this book incorporates culture throughout the world as a key element in understanding development in adolescence and emerging adulthood (ages 18-25). It uses a timely interdisciplinary perspective to present key theories, research and application. Many first person accounts from adolescents across cultures as well as critical thinking questions make this an engaging and interesting introduction to the field of adolescent development.

Chapter topics include: biological foundations, cognitive foundations, cultural beliefs, gender, the self, family relationships, friends and peers, dating, love, sexuality, school, work, media, and adolescence and emerging adulthood in the 21st century.

For individuals in a variety of fields relating to adolescents.

Generation Me: Why Today's Young Americans Are More Confident, Assertive, Entitled--and More Miserable Than Ever Before

Average customer rating:

Fine book but doesn't account for some major factors
Worthwhile reading, but with a grain of salt
Great Book
Fantastic, engaging review of the generation
Any person involved in ministry must read this book!!!

Generation Me: Why Today's Young Americans Are More Confident, Assertive, Entitled--and More Miserable Than Ever Before
Jean M., Ph.D. Twenge
Manufacturer: Free Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0743276981

Book Description

Called "The Entitlement Generation" or Gen Y, they are storming into schools, colleges, and businesses all over the country. In this provocative new book, headline-making psychologist and social commentator Dr. Jean Twenge explores why the young people she calls "Generation Me" -- those born in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s -- are tolerant, confident, open-minded, and ambitious but also cynical, depressed, lonely, and anxious.

Herself a member of Generation Me, Dr. Twenge uses findings from the largest intergenerational research study ever conducted -- with data from 1.3 million respondents spanning six decades -- to reveal how profoundly different today's young adults are. Here are the often shocking truths about this generation, including dramatic differences in sexual behavior, as well as controversial predictions about what the future holds for them and society as a whole. Her often humorous, eyebrow-raising stories about real people vividly bring to life the hopes and dreams, disappointments and challenges of Generation Me.

GenMe has created a profound shift in the American character, changing what it means to be an individual in today's society. The collision of this generation's entitled self-focus and today's competitive marketplace will create one of the most daunting challenges of the new century. Engaging, controversial, prescriptive, funny, Generation Me will give Boomers new insight into their offspring, and help those in their teens, 20s, and 30s finally make sense of themselves and their goals and find their road to happiness.

Download Description

The Associated Press calls them "The Entitlement Generation," and they are storming into schools, colleges, and businesses all over the country. They are today's young people, a new generation with sky-high expectations and a need for constant praise and fulfillment. In this provocative new book, headline-making psychologist and social commentator Dr. Jean Twenge documents the self-focus of what she calls "Generation Me" -- people born in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Herself a member of Generation Me, Dr. Twenge explores why her generation is tolerant, confident, open-minded, and ambitious but also cynical, depressed, lonely, and anxious. Using findings from the largest intergenerational study ever conducted -- with data from 1.3 million respondents spanning six decades -- Dr. Twenge reveals how profoundly different today's young adults are -- and makes controversial predictions about what the future holds for them and society as a whole. But Dr. Twenge doesn't just talk statistics -- she highlights real-life people and stories and vividly brings to life the hopes and dreams, disappointments and challenges of Generation Me. With a good deal of irony, humor, and sympathy she demonstrates that today's young people have been raised to aim for the stars at a time when it is more difficult than ever to get into college, find a good job, and afford a house -- even with two incomes. GenMe's expectations have been raised just as the world is becoming more competitive, creating an enormous clash between expectations and reality. Dr. Twenge also presents the often-shocking truths about her generation's dramatically different sexual behavior and mores. GenMe has created a profound shift in the American character, changing what it means to be an individual in today's society. Engaging, controversial, prescriptive, and often funny, Generation Me will give Boomers new insight into their offspring, and help GenMe'ers in their teens, 20s, and 30s finally make sense of themselves and their goals and find their road to happiness.

Customer Reviews:

Fine book but doesn't account for some major factors.......2007-09-22

In and of itself this is a excellent source of clarity when one is trying to make sense of the Y generation. They aren't the easiest age cohort to understand or make sense of, in terms of thought processes, motivational factors, developmental forces, values, tastes, needs, or social drives. This often leaves the baby boom generation somewhat baffled by their seeming opacity. After a second reading of Generation Me, with extensive underlining and reflective contemplation, I think I'm beginning to get what makes them tick, and that's a valuable thing.

However, we are perhaps only now gaining an appreciation, and with that a sobering trepidation, of how powerfully medicated a generation the Y people are. This additional factor is all to easy to downplay or overlook, yet a high percentage of younger adults and adolescents are being medicated with strong mood altering medicines. Often these medicines are given for behaviors that would appear to be well within the envelope of adolescent normality 30 years ago, but today are framed as disruptive or antisocial. In my opinion, this is an exceedingly unhealthy trend as we develop institutional habits of "grinding off" any rough edges with pharmaceuticals, leaving nothing but a monotone consensus culture in their wake. Is this the collective form of life we truly desire ? Or have we been merely seduced by the low cost of medicating the young instead of alowing them to work through the discovery process of a rich, varied life experience ?

The second factor which is shaping the young of today is the legacy of the human potential movement, cults, and large group seminars which sought near instantaneous, collective Satori experiences and discounted the long, slow, saturnine process of becoming a fully formed human. We bought into this model of empowerment without reflection, much as we bought into the model that most problems with the mind were problems of chemistry.

In my opinion, it is the dual legacy which is very much derived from Baby Boom lifestyle and attitude, mind medicine and pop psychology, which has had a deep and woeful impact on the life arc of young people today.

I wish the author had devoted a thorough analysis of the origins and impacts of medicalization and psychologizing of the young.

Worthwhile reading, but with a grain of salt.......2007-09-03

I wanted to read this book to better understand the younger people in my life, and it is of value in many ways, as dozens of other reader/ reviewers have noted.

I also agree with some of her conclusions: For example, many of today's young people seem to have a very difficult time accepting criticism, and have an exaggerated idea of their own importance and abilities.

However, there is one area of discussion that I disagree with, and that is that 'Generation Me' has it harder than previous ones. Yes, there is more competition and fewer opportunities, partially due to corporate downsizing and shipping jobs to India, etc. But at the same time, some of the competition is due to the fact that both men and women are in the mix. In earlier generations, men would have had the field more to themselves. In fact, if the author had graduated from high school when I or my mom and grandmother did, she may not have had the opportunity to enter the field of sociology as a professional, let alone have a serious book published, and if she did, fewer would have read it because she's a woman, and women weren't taken as seriously in intellectual pursuits. Women of my generation had very little career or professional opportunities, generally, and fewer people were even able to attend college. (I'm not sure there were even Pell Grants) In addition, immigrants from other countries -- then and perhaps even now -- have a much harder time 'making it' in our culture...In this particular regard, her viewpoint seems as narcisstic as she may feel these kids are.

Great Book.......2007-08-04

If you want to know more about a generation & how to deal with this one, BUY THIS BOOK! She does a great job of explaining issues and citing facts with sarcasm, it's a wonderful read.

Fantastic, engaging review of the generation.......2007-07-20

I thoroughlly enjoyed this book. Dr. Twenge does a great deal of research and presents it all in a non-confusing, non-overwhelming manner. It's an engaging book and gave me quite a bit to think about. I have recommended this book already half a dozen times to collegues and friends who are interested in engaging Gen-Me.

(disclosure: I'm a Gen-Me. I resonated with a lot of the book from that perspective although I originally read it to understand the younger part of the Gen-Me demographic.)

Any person involved in ministry must read this book!!!.......2007-07-20

I am a pastor to young adults (ages 18-35) at a large church in California and I was introduced to this book a few months ago. It really hit home with the trends I was noticing in most of the young adults I was working with (myself included) at our church, and other pastors agreed. I especially appreciated the commentary on the Christian obsession with the self.

I enjoyed the book so much we decided to do an 8-week sermon series in which we're discussing the trends of the Gen Me culture and then reflecting on what Scripture has to say, mostly in contrast to the self focused message of the last 35 years (Jesus - "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." (Luke 9:23)).

Twenge's book is brilliantly, blunt research which I've found to be extremely useful to churches, who are as much in the sociological field as they are the theological one in an ever-changing culture.

Preparing for Life: The Complete Guide for Transitioning to Adulthood for Those with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome

Average customer rating:

A necessary tool for social skills groups.
Excellent!!!
Knowledge delivered effectively is empowering!
Brilliant Navigator
Great Life Skills Training

Preparing for Life: The Complete Guide for Transitioning to Adulthood for Those with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome
Jed Baker
Manufacturer: Future Horizons
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum: A Parent's Guide to the Cognitive, Social, Physical, and Transition Needs ofTeenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorders

ASIN: 1932565337

Book Description

A comprehensive resource for students on the autism spectrum preparing for life after high school, best-selling author/counselor Dr. Jed Baker offers "life skills training" on subjects such as non-verbal cues, body language, dealing with anger, frustration and anxiety, as well as building and maintaining friendships, roommates, and intimate relationships. He focuses on conversational and employment skills, ways to balance work/school with family demands, and problematic areas such as finances, emergencies and transportation matters. The assessment tools he provides for parents and the analysis of the laws that provide accommodations to adults with disabilities are critical for success in life after high school.

Customer Reviews:

A necessary tool for social skills groups........2007-01-10

I use Dr. Bakers manuals and pictures books in my group practice, and find them to be an invaluable tool for social skills training. They are easy to use and address the areas of difficulty that many of my clients struggle with. I also share the skills sheets with my clients' teachers and other caregivers to promote genrealization of the skills.

The gains my clients have made by learning and using the skills are measueable. Dr. Baker's books are a necessary tool for any social skills trainging program.

Excellent!!!.......2007-01-08

Another practical, informative and totally user-friendly book from Dr. Baker. Every professional working with adolescents and young adults will benefit from having this in their collection.

Knowledge delivered effectively is empowering!.......2007-01-05

In this indispensable guide, Dr. Baker gives parents and educators solid tools and strategies to embrace what's unique about our students in a way the adds ease and empowerment to the process.

Brilliant Navigator.......2006-12-11

This book is truly a Godsend. It is ideal for people on the autism/Asperger's spectrum who are approaching adulthood. Dr. Baker is plainly a gifted man and this book is proof positive of his logical vision. He is also a brilliant navigator who leads expeditions for people on the a/A spectrum into understanding the neurotypical world and issues in it.

I like the way he organizes assets and challenges by putting them into categories, e.g. work, social, etc. Dr. Baker includes some good practical techniques for handling difficult emotions. His advice on dating and employment issues is something no adult on the spectrum should go without reading. If you are an adult on the spectrum, please make this book your best friend.

Great Life Skills Training.......2006-07-11

This is a great motivational book for someone on the verge of entering into adulthood. Dr. Baker pinpoints specific skills needed for a variety of "life situations" by catagorizing them and dealing with them individually. It starts out with mapping out assets and challenges. There are activity pages to use when anger is an issue and suggestions on calming ones self. The book includes a 16 page section on dating. It offers great advice for job seekers, from writing resumes to handling rejection. These are only a few of the sections found in this book. It truly is indispensable for anyone with Autism or Asperger's Syndrome. I definitely recommend this one.

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