Raising kids today seems harder than ever. There are so many things weighing them down, from relationships, school demands, social media, and more. Dads need to guide kids through it all. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, Dr. Chap Clark shares wisdom from his years of experience studying teens and their behavior and tells listeners how to better understand and support their kids.
Why This Matters
Kids feel pressure—to perform, fit in, and be liked. This causes friction and tension, but dads can be the steady presence they need.
Know the Language
Dr. Clark shares a few terms that may be new to you:
- Mosaic thinking: It’s harder kids to focus on one thing at a time.
- Avatar: In order to fit in, kids will build different 'avatars' of themselves depending on the social situation they're facing.
Troubles For Modern Kids
- Life feels very transactional: This leads kids to try to, as Chap says, “perform my way into blessing.”
- Belonging matters: Dr. Clark says the “power of belonging” is paramount. Kids are looking for a place where they feel accepted.
Important Episode Timestamps
00:00 – 00:55 | Introduction & Guest Welcome
00:55 – 03:47 | The Changing Landscape of Parenting Teens
03:47 – 06:55 | The “System” Has Let Kids Down
06:55 – 09:32 | A Father’s Role in Restoring Trust
09:32 – 12:08 | How Teens Process Identity & Belonging
12:08 – 15:50 | The Power of Presence Over Performance
15:50 – 19:21 | Building Bridges Through Listening
19:21 – 21:54 | Practical Habits to Create Safe Spaces
21:54 – 24:17 | Why Kids Still Need Boundaries
24:17 – 25:50 | Pro Move of the Week: Strive to be unflappable, have compassion with your kids, and take deep breaths.
Listen Again:
Episode 61 – What Problems Do Kids Face Today That We Didn’t?
Episode 74 – Checking in With Kids: 5 Gauges Dads Need to Know
5 Challenges We Need to Help Generation Alpha Face
Dr. Clark and
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